Minister of Defence discusses issue of visa-free regime with the USA

01.08.2006
 
During the meeting in Washington with the Assistant Secretary of Condoleezza Rice for European and Eurasian Affairs Daniel Fried, the Latvian Minister of Defence discussed current issued in Iraq, as well as preparatory works of NATO Summit to be held in Rīga. Participants of negotiations admitted that the situation in Iraq still is inflammable and therefore its development should be followed carefully. However, in relation to Meeting of NATO Heads of States and Governments in Rīga representatives of the US and Latvia expressed their satisfaction on the successful preparatory works, also talked over the range of issued to be viewed in the Summit.

In talks with officials from the US Department also opportunities concerning introduction of a visa-free regime between Latvia and USA were discussed. “In several EU countries, including Latvia, in the classes and masses dissatisfaction is expressed due to division of such member states that have or do not have a visa-free regime with the USA”, as pointed out Atis Slakteris.

“We have a great cooperation with USA and common experience in solving urgent issues also beyond our country borders, therefore this visa-free subject should be solved without hesitation and in a manner our good partnership is built.” While negotiations Mr Slakteris stressed mutual benefits to be gained from visa-regime if introduced between both Latvia and USA. A promise to keep track of the legislation process on the subject was forwarded by the US Secretary of State Condoleezza to the President of the Republic of Latvia Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga in June. A.Slakteris and officials from the US agreed to continue consulting on the issue of a visa-free regime between both countries.

Information prepared by:
Public Relations Department of MoD
Press Section