Baltic States – CIS, EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Legislation, Tourism, Transport

During the meeting, the officials discussed bilateral relations of Latvia and Germany, focusing mainly on issues related to economic growth, relations between the European Union and Russia, and migration.

Prime Minister Maris Kucinskis pointed out that Latvia appreciates the close cooperation with Germany at all levels, including with the federal states. The federal states in northern Germany, including Lower Saxony, are among the major co-operation partners of Latvia.

The municipalies of Latvia and cities of Lower Saxony already enjoy active cooperation. The regions of Jekabpils, Cesis, Madona, Koknese, Engure and other municipalities of Latvia cooperate with various cities of Lower Saxony.  

Latvia also sees opportunities for expanding cooperation in the field of tourism by respecting the strategically and historically important role of northern Germany in the Baltic Sea region. Last year, the number of German tourists in Latvia increased by 6%.

"We propose the expanded use of the Latvian transit and logistics infrastructure. Latvia, with its favorable geographical location, well-developed transport infrastructure and competitive workforce, is a an appropriate place to organize transit and logistics between the markets of the EU, CIS, Central Asia and China," said M. Kucinskis.

At the conclusion of the visit, M. Kucinskis extended an invitation to S. Weil to visit Latvia.

As previously announced, from April 28-29, M. Kucinskis is paying a working visit to Germany.

During the visit, the Prime Minsiter is scheduled to meet the Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Angela Merkel. The Prime Minister will also attend the Hannover Messe, participate in a panel discussion on the importance of start-ups for economic growth, and will meet the German and Latvian entrepreneurs.