Other events in Baltic States

At the Open Doors Day on 9 October, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed students from Riga, Jūrmala, Kuldīga, Cēsis, Daugavpils and Rūjiena, as well as other visitors interested in getting an insight into the work of the Foreign Service and the diplomatic profession, informs the Latvian MFA.

At the start of the event, the State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry, Andrejs Pildegovics, outlined the tasks of Latvia’s Foreign Service, such as strengthening international security, promoting economic competitiveness, support for the Latvian diaspora, and providing consular assistance. The State Secretary also described the distinctive character of a diplomat’s work and encouraged the students to make use of internships at the Foreign Ministry. State Secretary Pildegovics noted that the Foreign Ministry is a place, which preserves and cherishes statehood and called on the students to keep such traditions alive.

Diplomats shared their experience with the visitors on the results of the first Latvian EU Presidency, the development prospects for the EU’s Eastern Partnership, the State Protocol’s work and its role in the Foreign Service. Information was also presented on how to travel safely, on potential risks that may be encountered abroad, and the possibilities for receiving assistance in emergency situations. Also taking part in the event was Andzs Ubelis, Goodwill Ambassador of the European Year for Development, who shared his impressions of the recent expedition to Africa and invited students and young people to contribute to preparing an expedition to South America.

The visitors had an opportunity to view the Foreign Ministry’s historic rooms and architecture, and the gallery of Latvian Foreign Ministers’ portraits.

The Foreign Ministry hosted 187 visitors.