Integration monitor is a daily Latvian press digest on ethnic minority and society integration issues. The Monitor reviews the biggest Latvian dailies: Diena, Latvijas Avize, Neatkariga (in Latvian language), Vesti Segodnya (in Russian language). In specific cases other information sources are used. Latvian Centre for Human Rights is not responsible for information published by the media.

Press Report

In an interview Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins, speaking about the future of Latvian – Russian relations after the meeting with his Russian colleague, did not forecast any immediate bright future, but the atmosphere of their meeting for the first time after a long time was somewhat friendly. But to speak about a breakthrough is still too early. Latvia is ready and wants to develop relations with Russia, especially taking into consideration that it is going to join EU, but Russia, as President Putin has stated, considers EU to its main partner. I.Berzins arrived to Moscow with many proposals and said Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Ivanov that they were ready to start discussing all issues – co-operation with regions, co-operation between parliaments, and activities of intergovernmental commission.

In an interview Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins, speaking about the future of Latvian – Russian relations after the meeting with his Russian colleague, did not forecast any immediate bright future, but the atmosphere of their meeting for the first time after a long time was somewhat friendly. But to speak about a breakthrough is still too early. Latvia is ready and wants to develop relations with Russia, especially taking into consideration that it is going to join EU, but Russia, as President Putin has stated, considers EU to its main partner. I.Berzins arrived to Moscow with many proposals and said Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Ivanov that they were ready to start discussing all issues – co-operation with regions, co-operation between parliaments, and activities of intergovernmental commission. Diena

Latvia plans this year to sign no-visa agreements with six more countries – Israel, Singapore, Korea, Chili, Monaco and San Marino. So far Latvia has such agreements with 31 countries.

Latvia plans this year to sign no-visa agreements with six more countries – Israel, Singapore, Korea, Chili, Monaco and San Marino. So far Latvia has such agreements with 31 countries. Neatkariga, Jauna Avize

The data from the concept of the Repatriation program show that within the next three years about 400 people will move to Latvia through repatriation. In 1999 the number of repatriates was 599.

The data from the concept of the Repatriation program show that within the next three years about 400 people will move to Latvia through repatriation. In 1999 the number of repatriates was 599. Neatkariga

Chairman of FF/LNNK M.Grinblats expressed an opinion that in the current situation to swing the government was advantageous only for People’s Party. Thus People’s Party could raise their low popularity rating before the local government election.

Chairman of FF/LNNK M.Grinblats expressed an opinion that in the current situation to swing the government was advantageous only for Peoples Party. Thus Peoples Party could raise their low popularity rating before the local government election. Neatkariga, Rigas Balss, Panorama Latvii