Financial Services, Latvia, Legislation, Port, Transport

In his announcement to the media, Vilks explains that the Freeport of Riga's board must be made up of professionals in their field, thus he has nominated Bane, who has much experience in budgetary and financial matters.

''I believe that Bane has proven herself as a competent and responsible official during her experience working in state administration. He professional knowledge of financial matters will most certainly be an asset to the development of the Freeport of Riga,'' Vilks said.

As reported, on Monday, Vilks accepted the resignation of the Finance Ministry's representative on the Freeport of Riga's board, Eriks Skapars (Unity).

Skapars submitted his resignation on June 14.

According to the Latvian State Television program "de facto", Skapars handed in his resignation due to the recent visit to Kazakhstan.

At the beginning of June, President Andris Berzins, accompanied by 134 businessmen from various sectors, went on an official to Kazakhstan. The visit consisted of various meetings, business forums and receptions. Skapars' presence was very important to defend the interests of the Freeport of Riga in Kazakhstan, however, he was not present at the Astana or Almaty business forums or other important events. According to "de facto", a reception hosted by the Latvian ambassador to Kazakhstan was the only event visited by Skapars.

Moreover, Skapars did not return together with the Latvian delegation on June 4, but chose to stay at the five-star "Rixos Almaty hotel" in Almaty until June 6, accompanied by businesswoman Maija Mikenena.