Latvian-Belgian defence co-operation discussed

19.06.2006 

Today, 19 May, the Minister of Defence Atis Slakteris has met with the Minister of Defence of the Belgian Kingdom André Flahaut.
During their meeting, both ministers praised the successful co-operation established between the Ministries of Defence and the Armed Forces of the two countries. Atis Slakteris thanked André Flahaut for the technical assistance provided for the Latvian Naval Force regarding mine-searching operations and training of the Latvian mine-searching specialists.

The Belgian defence minister stressed that this visit was a good continuation within bilateral co-operation in the field of defence between the two countries. The NATO air-policing mission in the Baltic air space has also been good way to demonstrate solidarity of the NATO states.
The meeting also covered the issues regarding the European Union security and defence policy and the agenda of the upcoming NATO Heads of State and Government meeting.
Today, there are meetings with the President Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga, the Chairman of the Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee Juris Dalbiņš and the National Armed Forces Commander, Vice-Admiral Gaidis Andrejs Zeibots scheduled for the Belgian defence minister.

Tomorrow, within the scope of his working visit, A. Flahaut will visit the Coast Guard Service, the Naval Force Flotilla, the Naval Force Training Centre, the Baltic Divers Training Centre and the 1st Regional Logistics Centre of the National Armed Forces Logistics Command.

Information produced by:
Artūrs Graudiņš
Senior Desk Officer of Press Section
MoD Public Relations Department
Phone: 7335136
E-mail: arturs.graudins@mod.gov.lv