Energy, EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Port, Transport, USA

Hillary Clinton and Andris Berzins. Riga, 28.06.2012. Photo: president.lv

Berzins and Clinton emphasized the successful development of Latvian-American cooperation within the framework of the Northern Distribution Network. The officials agreed that the introduced system could serve as basis for "a new silk route," where Latvia could become an important logistics center.

The sides also discussed Latvian-American cooperation in the Afghan mission. Clinton lauded Latvia's involvement and resolve to fulfill its obligations.

Latvia was also commended for resolving to increase its defense budget to two percent of the country's gross domestic product by 2020. The officials touched upon the results of the recent NATO Summit in Chicago and Berzins positively assessed the alliance's decision to extend the Baltic air policing mission.

Berzins and Clinton also discussed the economic situation in Latvia and the U.S. secretary of state admitted that Latvia has achieved considerable results since the crisis, approving the government's accomplishments and the society's understanding of the necessity of reforms. She emphasized that Latvia's economic growth is the basis for the successful future cooperation between Latvian and U.S. businessmen.