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Research center: Merkel's opinion on military solidarity good signal for Latvia

BC, Riga, 20.08.2014.Print version
German Chancellor Angela Merkel's opinion on military solidarity can be considered a good signal for Latvia and the rest of the Baltic countries, Center for East European Policy Studies CEO Andis Kudors told LETA.

When asked to explain Merkel's statement on Germany's readiness to help boost the Baltic defense infrastructure, at the same time denying the possibility for long-term deployment of troops, Kudors speculated that Merkel is "probably under huge political pressure."

 

"Germany has the largest influence on the joint EU foreign policy in regard to the East. This is also one of the reasons why Germany is trying to establish a balanced approach toward Russia. We can understand Germany on a global scale. Of course, the mutual dependence between Germany and Russia plays an important role here, as business owners are pressuring the government in regard to Germany's relations with Russia, as well as in regard to how these relations could be normalized, [..], nevertheless, the pressure is also coming from the general public," Kudors said, admitting that he had little hope that Germany will become the flag-officer in regard to military protection.

 

"The fact that the chancellor confirmed Germany's readiness to help with matters concerning the military field, means a lot," Kudors added.

 

Nevertheless, he does not believe that any specific agreements were signed during Merkel's visit in Latvia, however, he did not rule out the possibility that the discussion possibly involved several topics that are yet to be announced publicly.

 

"It is highly likely that during the meetings, there were informal discussions about the assigning of posts in Brussels," Kudors assumed.






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