Baltic States – CIS, Direct Speech, EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Legislation, Russia

The Russian ambassador told members of the press that the relations between the mentioned international partners are going through ''complicated times'', however, Veshnyakov hoped that together, using diplomatic methods, a solution can be found to the conflict in Ukraine, so that relations are once again normalized.

As one of the possible mediators in normalizing relations, Veshnyakov mentions Latvia. He said that the Latvian EU Presidency could open up ''windows of opportunity'', thus improving mutual relations between the countries. ''Latvia could become a bridge for improving relations between Russia and the EU,'' the ambassador said, adding that this would also be positive for bilateral relations.

As one of the positive points in maintaining relations, Veshnyakov mentioned the recent visit by Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics (Unity) to Moscow, where the two sides were able to discuss problem matters. He said that the problems between both countries were discussed openly and made very clear, ''just like neighbors must do''.

At the same time, Veshnyakov also pointed out that economic relations between Latvia and Russia remain at a high level, and claimed that despite the sanctions and political fervor, trade between the two countries has not reduced, but increased by 18.2% last year, reaching EUR 13.2 billion. The ambassador emphasized that trade between Latvia and Russia is larger than the total trade between Russia and Lithuania and Estonia together.