US President stresses the historic importance of NATO Riga Summit in Riga Castle

28.11.2006

The President of Latvia Vaira Vike-Freiberga met the US President George W. Bush in Riga Castle today. During the meeting the President of Latvia stressed the importance of the USA and their President in the creation of the transatlantic relations as well as highly appreciated the role of the USA in non-recognition of the incorporation of Latvia in the USSR as well as providing big support in the process of the state democratization and reforms after the restoration of the independence of Latvia and also at the moment being a trustful partner within the NATO Alliance. George W. Bush congratulated Latvia on hosting the NATO Summit and stressed its historic importance in NATO transformation and development.

During the meeting the parties dealt with a wide range of issues in relation to the NATO agenda, including the current developments of the Alliance – the future of the peace keeping missions in Afghanistan, prospects of the enlargement of the Alliance and energy security.

Concerning the bilateral relations the President of Latvia appreciated the fact that after the previous visit of George W. Bush to Riga in May, 2005 the volume of trade between the countries has increased by 30%. The US President confirmed that he understands the position of the President of Latvia regarding the visa-waiver regime with Latvia and was preparing to submit the bill to the US Congress that would revise the existing criteria for visa reliefs between the USA and Latvia.

Press department of President's Chancery