Spain is interested in Latvia’s knowledge of the Eastern European region and the country’s work in building resilience, the new Latvian ambassador to Spain, Janis Zlamets, told LETA.
He believes that geopolitical changes in the world have significantly strengthened both Latvia’s and Spain’s understanding of the importance of modern democratic European countries and NATO allies working together to ensure a prosperous and peaceful Europe in a turbulent world. Zlamets reminded that for several years Spanish troops have been stationed in Latvia, thus ensuring the security of the whole of NATO, not only Latvia but also Spain.
“Sitting at the same European Union (EU) table for more than 20 years, we know each other well in almost all areas of national policy. […] As Latvia moves towards becoming an elected member of the UN Security Council, Spain’s knowledge of regions of the world less familiar to us can be useful,” said the Ambassador.
He also drew attention to the fact that economic relations between Latvia and Spain were growing every year. Zlamets pointed out that Spain, although a few decades earlier than Latvia, has experienced a significant and modern transformation of the whole country and society.
“However, it is much bigger and, therefore, has greater opportunities. It is no coincidence that Spain is also a G20 country. Both the interest of Latvian businesses in Spain and the interest of Spanish businesses in Latvia could certainly be even greater,” said the Ambassador.
The Ambassador also pointed out that Riga and several Spanish cities are connected by direct flights, while interest in learning Spanish is growing in Latvian schools. There are opportunities to develop people-to-people contacts in a wide range of fields, he said.
“Latvians are familiar with Spain’s pleasant climate and European walking routes. We also need to encourage more and more Spaniards to visit Latvia, because we also have a lot to offer Spaniards,” said Zlamets.
Asked what the most pressing challenges are in Latvia-Spain relations, the Ambassador said that although Latvia and Spain are EU Member States and NATO allies, there is still much to be done to truly bridge the not-so-great geographical distance and gaps in knowledge about each other. In his view, the relationship between the two countries and their essentially similar societies have all the ingredients for ever closer contacts.
“I would like to see more Latvian entrepreneurs and professionals in different fields in Spain. And, yes, more Spanish tourists in Latvia. We need to get to know each other more. Then mutually beneficial and enriching cooperation in a wide range of sectors will follow,” the Ambassador summed up.
As reported, Zlamets received his credential from President Edgars Rinkevics at Riga Castle earlier this week.
Source: BNS
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