Economics, EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Legislation, Markets and Companies

Edgars Rinkevics meets with the incoming Swiss Ambassador to Latvia Walter Haffner. Riga, 9.07.2012. Photo: flickr.com

Rinkevics and Haffner discussed the cooperation to date between Latvia and Switzerland, making note of the successful political dialogue and the close economic and cultural cooperation. The minister emphasized the great potential for a further expansion of economic contacts between both countries, but voiced concerns over the restrictions imposed by the Swiss government on the citizens of eight EU states, including Latvia, for receiving residence permits. Rinkevics expressed hope for a positive solution to the issue in the near future.

At the same time, the minister accentuated that Latvia highly values Switzerland's financial contribution program and the country's role in the International Francophone Organization and its contribution to promoting the French language and culture in Latvia. During the conversation, Rinkevics also informed the ambassador about Latvia’s wish to acquire membership status in the OECD Working Group on Bribery in International Business Transactions.

 On his part, Haffner accentuated the successful implementation of the Swiss financial assistance program in Latvia.

 The ambassador’s accreditation visit with President Andris Berzins is scheduled for tomorrow.