This year, during the Latvian Patriots’ Week, on November 14, the official opening event of the International Association of Defense Products Manufacturers (SAPRA) took place. The event brought together more than 70 leading industry experts, business representatives and government officials from several countries to mark a new stage in the development of the defense industry.
The event was opened by Edgars Zandmanis, Chairman of the Board of SAPRA, stressing the need for international cooperation to strengthen European security and promote innovation in the defense sector. He noted that the main goal of the association is to unite photonics and optics companies from different countries and make Latvia as a strategic hub on NATO’s eastern flank.
Mr Zandmanis, Chairman of the Board of SAPRA, emphasizes that SAPRA is an important step towards strengthening the role of defense products manufacturers in Latvia’s economy and fostering cooperation with government authorities and international institutions. “Our goal is not only to represent the interests of the industry but also to highlight the fundamental importance of defense manufacturing in the context of national security and the economy,” says Edgars Zandmanis.
“I believe this project to be extremely significant, especially when viewed through a broader lens, beyond just the military perspective. It brings massive investments into Latvia! (…) It’s particularly exciting that this is a multinational investment, and it’s happening here in Latvia,” emphasizes Raimonds Bergmanis, Chairman of the Saeima’s Internal Affairs and Corruption Prevention Committee.
The discussions featured both Latvian and international experts, as well as company representatives, who shared their insights and visions for the future of the industry. Special attention was given to the latest technological advancements and their applications in the defense sector.
The growing role of defense production in Europe and NATO countries focuses on strengthening cooperation and exchanging expertise. SAPRA is ready to provide a platform that will promote international cooperation, increase the competitiveness of Latvian defense products and promote the recognition of these products. The launch of SAPRA marks a new chapter in the development of Latvia’s defense industry, showcasing its capacity to be an innovative and reliable partner on the international stage.