Press Report

Press Report

The Riga City Council on Thursday voted to remove from the office vice-mayor Inese Vaidere from Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party which recently broke a coalition on the Latvian capital city's council, and appointed as the vice-mayor a representative from one of the small parties. The majority on the Riga City Council led by Social Democrats on Thursday removed Vaidere as the vice-mayor and voted to replace her with Aivars Kreituss, the leader of the Labor Party which has only one vote on the city council. The proposal to recall Vaidere from the office was made by 33 members of the 60-strong Riga City Council. The motion was supported by actual coalition consisting of Social Democrats, the left-wing alliance For Human Rights and the Center bloc of small parties that have no coalition agreement between them, however.

The Riga City Council on Thursday voted to remove from the office vice-mayor Inese Vaidere from Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party which recently broke a coalition on the Latvian capital city's council, and appointed as the vice-mayor a representative from one of the small parties. The majority on the Riga City Council led by Social Democrats on Thursday removed Vaidere as the vice-mayor and voted to replace her with Aivars Kreituss, the leader of the Labor Party which has only one vote on the city council. The proposal to recall Vaidere from the office was made by 33 members of the 60-strong Riga City Council. The motion was supported by actual coalition consisting of Social Democrats, the left-wing alliance For Human Rights and the Center bloc of small parties that have no coalition agreement between them, however. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna Avize, Respublika, Panorama Latvii Vesti Segodnya

The foundation congress of a new political party to be formed by Bank of Latvia president could take place in fall, said one of the party's supporters, Latvian Jewish community leader Grigory Krupnikov. Krupnikov said that the new party being formed by Latvian central bank president, Einars Repse, had "several dozen supporters" and not all of them represented business circles. The Latvian Jewish community leader was one of three people named by Repse as supporters of his would-be party and organizers of fund-raising campaign. The other two names made public were those of Andris Kreislers, the head of Velve construction company, and Valdis Lokenbahs, the president of Dati IT company.

The foundation congress of a new political party to be formed by Bank of Latvia president could take place in fall, said one of the party's supporters, Latvian Jewish community leader Grigory Krupnikov. Krupnikov said that the new party being formed by Latvian central bank president, Einars Repse, had "several dozen supporters" and not all of them represented business circles. The Latvian Jewish community leader was one of three people named by Repse as supporters of his would-be party and organizers of fund-raising campaign. The other two names made public were those of Andris Kreislers, the head of Velve construction company, and Valdis Lokenbahs, the president of Dati IT company. BNS

Latvia's Foreign Ministry handed a letter to the Russian Trade representative in Latvia on Thursday, drawing attention to the idle movement on Latvian-Russian border points, reported the Foreign Ministry. The Foreign ministry reported that the situation on the borders has again worsened and truckers from Latvia and other countries are forced to stand in long queues due to the slow border-checking procedure. Latvia has asked Russia to improve the situation on its borders and deter the problems arisen.

Latvia's Foreign Ministry handed a letter to the Russian Trade representative in Latvia on Thursday, drawing attention to the idle movement on Latvian-Russian border points, reported the Foreign Ministry. The Foreign ministry reported that the situation on the borders has again worsened and truckers from Latvia and other countries are forced to stand in long queues due to the slow border-checking procedure. Latvia has asked Russia to improve the situation on its borders and deter the problems arisen. BNS

On Wednesday, August 22 Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins expressed his opinion on Latvia’s foreign policy. Minister voiced a belief that there existed a real chance by 2002 to finish negotiation with EU and in 2004 participate in the election of Europarliament. I.Berzins was sure that all three Baltic States had a real chance to join NATO. Evaluation his two years in this post, he as essential points mentioned the successful presidency in CoE and Latvian - Russian relations. Minister said Latvia most likely would become a NATO borderstate with Russia.

On Wednesday, August 22 Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins expressed his opinion on Latvias foreign policy. Minister voiced a belief that there existed a real chance by 2002 to finish negotiation with EU and in 2004 participate in the election of Europarliament. I.Berzins was sure that all three Baltic States had a real chance to join NATO. Evaluation his two years in this post, he as essential points mentioned the successful presidency in CoE and Latvian - Russian relations. Minister said Latvia most likely would become a NATO borderstate with Russia. Latvijas Vestnesis

On August 23 Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs met with a group of to American congressmen’s councilors. During this meeting they discussed priorities of Latvian foreign policy and internal processes. When speaking about relations with Russia, I.Berzins pointed out Latvia’s readiness to develop cooperative and ascending relations with Russia taking into consideration the future of Latvia as an EU borderstate.

On August 23 Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs met with a group of to American congressmens councilors. During this meeting they discussed priorities of Latvian foreign policy and internal processes. When speaking about relations with Russia, I.Berzins pointed out Latvias readiness to develop cooperative and ascending relations with Russia taking into consideration the future of Latvia as an EU borderstate. Latvijas Vestnesis

Yesterday Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov visited fish refinery plant “Kaija”. When talking to local workers of different nationalities and with resident status he said that he from time to time remembered the slogans calling 700 000 non-Latvians to go home and the Ambassador wondered, “Who would work here?” And of course, as a representative of Russia and concerned about the situation of non-citizens he would like non-citizens have equal rights and become citizens as soon as possible.

Yesterday Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov visited fish refinery plant Kaija. When talking to local workers of different nationalities and with resident status he said that he from time to time remembered the slogans calling 700 000 non-Latvians to go home and the Ambassador wondered, Who would work here? And of course, as a representative of Russia and concerned about the situation of non-citizens he would like non-citizens have equal rights and become citizens as soon as possible. Panorama Latvii, Vesti Segodnya, Chas

Newspaper

Vesti Segodnya interviewed the popular Latvian American journalist K.Streips after his public debate with publisher A.Garda. Speaking about nationalism K.Streips said that there were many scoundrels among Latvians and good people among Russians, but he could as well understand Latvian nationalists– after years there were still many people thinking that they did not need the Latvian language. K.Streips was against education in the Russian language. When the journalist pointed out to the situation in the USA where there were Spanish radio stations and Swedish was a state language in Finland, K.Streips answered that in US people, who did not know English, lived in ghettoes, and one should not compare Latvia with Finland because Latvia was under a military occupation for 50 years.

Press Report

Press Report

The Russian State Duma Foreign Commission Chairman, Dmitry Rogozin, has given a very negative assessment on the removal of Peter the Great's statue form Latvia's capital, Riga. The century old statue of a former Russian tzar has still not completely been restored, but was temporarily placed in a central park of Riga last weekend during the Riga 800 anniversary celebrations. "This fact demonstrates to everyone the peculiarities of Latvian politician mentalities - small-country chauvinism and narrow-mindedness," said Rogozin to the Interfax news agency. He emphasized that "if Latvians want nasty feelings from many generations of Russians for long years to come, then they have managed it." Meanwhile, the most extreme Russian National Bolshevik Party promises to "answer adequately," if the mayor of Riga or the Riga City Council decide to take the statue for Russia's tzar, Peter the Great, outside the city limits.

The Russian State Duma Foreign Commission Chairman, Dmitry Rogozin, has given a very negative assessment on the removal of Peter the Great's statue form Latvia's capital, Riga. The century old statue of a former Russian tzar has still not completely been restored, but was temporarily placed in a central park of Riga last weekend during the Riga 800 anniversary celebrations. "This fact demonstrates to everyone the peculiarities of Latvian politician mentalities - small-country chauvinism and narrow-mindedness," said Rogozin to the Interfax news agency. He emphasized that "if Latvians want nasty feelings from many generations of Russians for long years to come, then they have managed it." Meanwhile, the most extreme Russian National Bolshevik Party promises to "answer adequately," if the mayor of Riga or the Riga City Council decide to take the statue for Russia's tzar, Peter the Great, outside the city limits. BNS, Diena

Closing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) mission in Latvia at the end of this year would be a logical result, considering the mission's achievements since its opening and the positive evaluation given by the OSCE, claims Latvia's Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins. Berzins told reporters Wednesday that "I believe that the mission should be closed this year, and Romania, holding OSCE presidency, knows this" and personally believes that "we can do this." Nevertheless, Latvia's aim is not "get rid of the mission," but to close it at the right time, making it a "story of success," as it has been until now, said the minister. The OSCE has been mainly concerned with naturalization and citizenship issues in Latvia, while lately it has also been involved in the process of forming an ombudsman institution and strengthening other human rights institutions. The OSCE mission also monitors the implementation of the state language law in Latvia. Latvia hopes that the OSCE mission will be closed at the end of this year together with the mission in Estonia, hinting at the fact that the OSCE sees no serious problems in the sphere of human rights.

Closing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) mission in Latvia at the end of this year would be a logical result, considering the mission's achievements since its opening and the positive evaluation given by the OSCE, claims Latvia's Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins. Berzins told reporters Wednesday that "I believe that the mission should be closed this year, and Romania, holding OSCE presidency, knows this" and personally believes that "we can do this." Nevertheless, Latvia's aim is not "get rid of the mission," but to close it at the right time, making it a "story of success," as it has been until now, said the minister. The OSCE has been mainly concerned with naturalization and citizenship issues in Latvia, while lately it has also been involved in the process of forming an ombudsman institution and strengthening other human rights institutions. The OSCE mission also monitors the implementation of the state language law in Latvia. Latvia hopes that the OSCE mission will be closed at the end of this year together with the mission in Estonia, hinting at the fact that the OSCE sees no serious problems in the sphere of human rights. BNS, Jauna Avize, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnya

If Latvia does not join the European Union and NATO net year, there may be no other chance, said Latvia's Foreign Minister, Indulis Berzins at a press briefing on Wednesday. "The right things have to be done at the right time, and if don't use these chances - the EU and NATO - our friends... fate may not give us a second such chance," said Berzins, adding that the "EU and NATO for Latvia are two sides of one coin - a golden coin." Berzins stated that this year and the next will be decisive for Latvia's integration into NATO and the European Union, because NATO will be deciding on accepting new members at the Prague summit in November 2002, while the EU could be accepting the most successful candidates by early 2003. Relations with Russia are based on Latvia soon being a NATO and EU country bordering Russia. "Certain responsibilities thus follow, and ... Latvia realizes these responsibilities - to develop good relations with its neighbors," said Berzins, adding, "this is our geopolitical responsibility" because both the EU and NATO are interested in good neighborly relations, especially with Russia.

If Latvia does not join the European Union and NATO net year, there may be no other chance, said Latvia's Foreign Minister, Indulis Berzins at a press briefing on Wednesday. "The right things have to be done at the right time, and if don't use these chances - the EU and NATO - our friends... fate may not give us a second such chance," said Berzins, adding that the "EU and NATO for Latvia are two sides of one coin - a golden coin." Berzins stated that this year and the next will be decisive for Latvia's integration into NATO and the European Union, because NATO will be deciding on accepting new members at the Prague summit in November 2002, while the EU could be accepting the most successful candidates by early 2003. Relations with Russia are based on Latvia soon being a NATO and EU country bordering Russia. "Certain responsibilities thus follow, and ... Latvia realizes these responsibilities - to develop good relations with its neighbors," said Berzins, adding, "this is our geopolitical responsibility" because both the EU and NATO are interested in good neighborly relations, especially with Russia. BNS, Diena, Vesti Segodnya

Jauna Avize states that Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs dramatizes the situation.

Jauna Avize states that Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs dramatizes the situation.

Research carried out by specialists in Latvia shows that extensive alienation exists between citizens and non-citizens, as well as Latvian-speakers and other language speakers in Latvia. The research carried out by Doctors of Science Artis Pabriks, Elmars Vebers and Master of Social Sciences Reinis Aboltins, was presented in Riga on Wednesday. The research is based on the hypothesis that the alienation of the state and society, as well as the alienation between various social groups is one of the largest current social problems in Latvia, states the introduction. Alienation of society is also promoted by the fact that the it is the group of citizens that decides on what takes place in the country by participating in elections, but those left outside this group perceive this strenuously, states the research. The research goes on to claim that ethnic problems amongst teenagers are no less than they are amongst grown-ups. School children from schools that teach in Russian feel emotionally alienated from Latvia and its symbols. Head of the naturalization board, Eizenija Aldermane, noted the importance of the research, but said that it would not count as serious research and analysis. Aldermane also said that naturalization issues are used by Latvia's political forces in order to divide society. According to the naturalization board, early July figures show that Latvia is populated by 58.1 percent ethnic Latvians and 41.9 percent non-Latvians, mostly ethnic-Russians. Of the 2.4 million strong population in Latvia, 500,000 are non-citizens and 30,000 are foreigners.

Research carried out by specialists in Latvia shows that extensive alienation exists between citizens and non-citizens, as well as Latvian-speakers and other language speakers in Latvia. The research carried out by Doctors of Science Artis Pabriks, Elmars Vebers and Master of Social Sciences Reinis Aboltins, was presented in Riga on Wednesday. The research is based on the hypothesis that the alienation of the state and society, as well as the alienation between various social groups is one of the largest current social problems in Latvia, states the introduction. Alienation of society is also promoted by the fact that the it is the group of citizens that decides on what takes place in the country by participating in elections, but those left outside this group perceive this strenuously, states the research. The research goes on to claim that ethnic problems amongst teenagers are no less than they are amongst grown-ups. School children from schools that teach in Russian feel emotionally alienated from Latvia and its symbols. Head of the naturalization board, Eizenija Aldermane, noted the importance of the research, but said that it would not count as serious research and analysis. Aldermane also said that naturalization issues are used by Latvia's political forces in order to divide society. According to the naturalization board, early July figures show that Latvia is populated by 58.1 percent ethnic Latvians and 41.9 percent non-Latvians, mostly ethnic-Russians. Of the 2.4 million strong population in Latvia, 500,000 are non-citizens and 30,000 are foreigners. BNS, Respublika, Chas, Vesti Segodnya

To make FF/LNNK, which after withdrawing from the coalition in Riga City Council kept their posts there, to state their position openly on their future work in the Council, People’s Party Council came out with a call to form a right opposition in the City Council. It would male FF/LNNK the leave all the posts they have. While FF/LNNK leaders are still thinking what to answer, left-wingers plan to call an extraordinary council meeting and demand dismissing of FF/LNNK representative I.Vaidere from the post of Deputy mayor.

To make FF/LNNK, which after withdrawing from the coalition in Riga City Council kept their posts there, to state their position openly on their future work in the Council, Peoples Party Council came out with a call to form a right opposition in the City Council. It would male FF/LNNK the leave all the posts they have. While FF/LNNK leaders are still thinking what to answer, left-wingers plan to call an extraordinary council meeting and demand dismissing of FF/LNNK representative I.Vaidere from the post of Deputy mayor. Diena

A Latvian lawmaker will join the delegation of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) observers monitoring presidential elections in Belarus from Sept. 6 to 10. Lawmaker Antons Seiksts, who chairs the parliamentary human rights and social issues committee, told BNS he will be the only official representative of the Latvian parliament in the OSCE delegation but other lawmakers may travel to Belarus as private individuals and at their own cost. "Only I will have the right to give to the OSCE an official opinion about elections in Belarus," said Seiksts. The OSCE mission will send him to some specific election district which will probably be not Minsk but some remote rural area. Seiksts' responsibility will be to monitor the compliance of election procedures with the OSCE standards and Belarus law.

A Latvian lawmaker will join the delegation of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) observers monitoring presidential elections in Belarus from Sept. 6 to 10. Lawmaker Antons Seiksts, who chairs the parliamentary human rights and social issues committee, told BNS he will be the only official representative of the Latvian parliament in the OSCE delegation but other lawmakers may travel to Belarus as private individuals and at their own cost. "Only I will have the right to give to the OSCE an official opinion about elections in Belarus," said Seiksts. The OSCE mission will send him to some specific election district which will probably be not Minsk but some remote rural area. Seiksts' responsibility will be to monitor the compliance of election procedures with the OSCE standards and Belarus law. BNS

Opposite to the opinion expressed a few years ago that ethnic problems would temper with time, researchers lately are becoming more worried about youngsters who now clearly voice their attitude towards an idea of multicultural state and a possibility how people of several nations could live together on one territory. The examples are youth movement Solidarnostj event in Mezaparks, Garda’s contest for students. The latest example is a demonstration at the Monument of Freedom when youngsters from Club 415 gathered there demanding for “Decolonisation”. Some regard them as extremists, but Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks thinks that they should not be labeled like that because they so far have not called for violence and kindling of ethnic hatred.

Opposite to the opinion expressed a few years ago that ethnic problems would temper with time, researchers lately are becoming more worried about youngsters who now clearly voice their attitude towards an idea of multicultural state and a possibility how people of several nations could live together on one territory. The examples are youth movement Solidarnostj event in Mezaparks, Gardas contest for students. The latest example is a demonstration at the Monument of Freedom when youngsters from Club 415 gathered there demanding for Decolonisation. Some regard them as extremists, but Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks thinks that they should not be labeled like that because they so far have not called for violence and kindling of ethnic hatred. Diena

Neatkariga writes that these youngsters wanted to remind the society August 23, 1939, the day when was signed Molotov- Ribentrop pact.

Russian speaking newspaper

Russian speaking newspaper Chas states Club 415 got a permission from Riga City Council to organize this activity with no problems while the request of the youth movement Solidarnostj request to organize a picket at the Council building in support of education in their mother tong was refused.

Latvian Social Democratic Workers’ Party came out with a public statement where they said that due to the defeat at the local government election right wingers had started a total war against Latvian Social Democratic Workers’ Party. The aim of this action is to prevent their total defeat in the 8th Saeima election. From completely sure sources there is information that the first plan is to subvert Social Democrats Riga City Managing Director M.Tralmaks and the Mayor G.Bojars. Next move will be to start court proceedings against the Party Chairman Prof. J.Bojars, oust him from the post of Party Chairman and replace him with a marionette.

Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party came out with a public statement where they said that due to the defeat at the local government election right wingers had started a total war against Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party. The aim of this action is to prevent their total defeat in the 8th Saeima election. From completely sure sources there is information that the first plan is to subvert Social Democrats Riga City Managing Director M.Tralmaks and the Mayor G.Bojars. Next move will be to start court proceedings against the Party Chairman Prof. J.Bojars, oust him from the post of Party Chairman and replace him with a marionette. Diena,

Representatives of Russian National Bolshevik organization Limonovci circulated an announcement where they called the Monument to Peter the Great the symbol of Russia’s power and assured that this tzar turned the provincial, tiny and poor Latvia to a developed country.

Representatives of Russian National Bolshevik organization Limonovci circulated an announcement where they called the Monument to Peter the Great the symbol of Russias power and assured that this tzar turned the provincial, tiny and poor Latvia to a developed country. Jauna Avize

Newspaper

Newspaper Panorama Latvii quotes the speech of Saeima Speaker J.Straume, made at the solemn meeting to commemorate the adoption of the law On the Republic of Latvia Status. J.Straume stated that the dialog between Russia and Latvia might be revitalized by a common opinion on the past events, i.e. colonization of Latvia. Of course, this fact is not officially recognized either by the government of the Russian Federation Council. J.Straume called parliamentarians of Russian Federation to make this step and acknowledge the fact that has been evident to the international community for a very long time.

The Latvian government appointed the Education and Science Ministry's state secretary, Andris Sarnovics, as its representative in cooperation with the international holocaust-working group, reported the government. The representative was chosen from the Education and Science Ministry, because this ministry is responsible for educating youth on issues of the holocaust. Government representatives will have to develop a common action plan based on projects submitted by state institutions and non-governmental organizations. The action plan is to be called: The holocaust: memory, research and education in Latvia; and the representatives will also have to cover information exchange between Latvia and the working group and coordinate implementation of the action plan.

The Latvian government appointed the Education and Science Ministry's state secretary, Andris Sarnovics, as its representative in cooperation with the international holocaust-working group, reported the government. The representative was chosen from the Education and Science Ministry, because this ministry is responsible for educating youth on issues of the holocaust. Government representatives will have to develop a common action plan based on projects submitted by state institutions and non-governmental organizations. The action plan is to be called: The holocaust: memory, research and education in Latvia; and the representatives will also have to cover information exchange between Latvia and the working group and coordinate implementation of the action plan. BNS

Newspaper

Newspaper Vesti Segodnya interviewed Minister of Education and Science K.Greiskalns about the future of Russian schools. Answering to the question why there were no books published on bilingual education, Minister answered that there were some publications but as the Ministry had developed four bilingual education programs and schools have chosen different ones, the Ministry limited its activities with providing schools with methodological materials corresponding to their chosen program. When asked about the problem that students learned subjects better in their own language, K.Greiskalns said that he did not see any problem there. New-Latvians K.Barons and many others went to St.Petersburg to study; and nowadays in Latvia there were schools with the English language of tuition. Commenting the fact that the state was financing only those private schools where the language of tuition is Latvia, Minister just stated, Law is law.

Press Report

Press Report

Head of the OSCE Mission to Latvia P.Semneby told

Head of the OSCE Mission to Latvia P.Semneby told Diena that operation of the Mission in Latvia would depend from the fact if it would manage to accomplish all the planned work by the end of this year. OSCE together with Latvian government plans to start a public information campaign in the nearest future to further integration. At the end of this year the OSCE will have to decide whether to extend the Missions mandate for six more months. The decision will mostly depend on the recommendations of the Mission Head on the human rights situation in Latvia. P.Semneby said that closure of the Mission was quite possible but not guaranteed yet. One of the issues still open is the implementation of the State language law. As a very sensitive issue the Mission Head mentioned last week adopted amendments to the naturalization exams. P.Semneby found those amendments to be acceptable (editors comment – the HoM actually used the wording not important in themselves) but called to abstain from any additional burdening changes in the citizenship exams in the future. The Head of the Naturalization Board E.Aldermane does not find those amendments burdening because multiple choice answers will not be offered only in some examination questions, e.g. What is the state language in Latvia? What color is the national flag of Latvia and what is the name of the State President?. Diena

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that Latvia's refusal to grant visa to non grata Moscow City executive cannot spoil the relations between Latvian and Russian and their respective capitals. Vike-Freiberga said Tuesday she wanted to see Moscow among Riga's cooperation partners and the refusal to issue a visa to Alexander Perelygin, an advisor to the Moscow mayor, who has been declared persona non grata to Latvia, cannot be the reason for spoiling the relationship. "There are no material complications on the Latvian side. The Latvian authorities made the decision compatible with international practice as regards personas non grata who due to various considerations are denied visas for a certain period," said the Latvian president in the interview to the Latvian Radio. She presumed that the Moscow mayor's office had been aware of Perelygin's non grata status when listing him among the Moscow city delegates be sent to Riga for celebration of the Latvian capital's 800th anniversary which reached its culmination last weekend. The Russian Foreign Ministry called Latvia's refusal "a purposeful unfriendly gesture" aimed against actual

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that Latvia's refusal to grant visa to non grata Moscow City executive cannot spoil the relations between Latvian and Russian and their respective capitals. Vike-Freiberga said Tuesday she wanted to see Moscow among Riga's cooperation partners and the refusal to issue a visa to Alexander Perelygin, an advisor to the Moscow mayor, who has been declared persona non grata to Latvia, cannot be the reason for spoiling the relationship. "There are no material complications on the Latvian side. The Latvian authorities made the decision compatible with international practice as regards personas non grata who due to various considerations are denied visas for a certain period," said the Latvian president in the interview to the Latvian Radio. She presumed that the Moscow mayor's office had been aware of Perelygin's non grata status when listing him among the Moscow city delegates be sent to Riga for celebration of the Latvian capital's 800th anniversary which reached its culmination last weekend. The Russian Foreign Ministry called Latvia's refusal "a purposeful unfriendly gesture" aimed against actual

cooperation projects between Riga and Moscow, vital for population of both capital cities. The Latvian Foreign Ministry said Russia's response had been too emotional and asked the neighboring country to reconsider. It also said there was no reason to reverse the decision about refusing a visa to Perelygin as the refusal was strictly in line with the Latvian law. Riga mayor Gundars Bojars was indignant over the Latvian Foreign Ministry decision, as he believed it may threaten important relations between Riga and Moscow. The mayor also said Riga should build own foreign policy including, among other things, closer cooperation with Moscow.

cooperation projects between Riga and Moscow, vital for population of both capital cities. The Latvian Foreign Ministry said Russia's response had been too emotional and asked the neighboring country to reconsider. It also said there was no reason to reverse the decision about refusing a visa to Perelygin as the refusal was strictly in line with the Latvian law. Riga mayor Gundars Bojars was indignant over the Latvian Foreign Ministry decision, as he believed it may threaten important relations between Riga and Moscow. The mayor also said Riga should build own foreign policy including, among other things, closer cooperation with Moscow. BNS, Latvijas Vestnesis

Former Latvian president Guntis Ulmanis, so far reluctant to discuss his political future said Tuesday he is considering the possibility of joining the central bank president in formation of a new right-wing party. Ulmanis told BNS he had had several meetings with Bank of Latvia president Einars Repse, who recently announced his intention to form a new party in Latvia. In future Ulmanis also expects serious talks about his possible participation in this venture.

Former Latvian president Guntis Ulmanis, so far reluctant to discuss his political future said Tuesday he is considering the possibility of joining the central bank president in formation of a new right-wing party. Ulmanis told BNS he had had several meetings with Bank of Latvia president Einars Repse, who recently announced his intention to form a new party in Latvia. In future Ulmanis also expects serious talks about his possible participation in this venture. BNS

The Latvian Foreign Ministry believes that the Russian Foreign Ministry's accusations about ill-treatment of ex-Soviet interior official and genocide convict, Mikhail Farbtukh, are inappropriate and built on non-existent "political subtexts" in the court ruling, said the Latvian Foreign Ministry state secretary Maris Riekstins. "We experienced a strange feeling when we came upon such statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry among correspondence from many countries congratulating us on the ten anniversary since restoration of Latvia's independence," the Latvian Foreign Ministry spokesman quoted Riekstins as saying.

The Latvian Foreign Ministry believes that the Russian Foreign Ministry's accusations about ill-treatment of ex-Soviet interior official and genocide convict, Mikhail Farbtukh, are inappropriate and built on non-existent "political subtexts" in the court ruling, said the Latvian Foreign Ministry state secretary Maris Riekstins. "We experienced a strange feeling when we came upon such statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry among correspondence from many countries congratulating us on the ten anniversary since restoration of Latvia's independence," the Latvian Foreign Ministry spokesman quoted Riekstins as saying. BNS

The Russian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday issued a statement accusing the Latvian authorities of ill-treating and actually torturing Farbtukh by refusing to grant him early release due to poor health. The statement said, "an 84-year-old invalid of the first degree unable to take care of himself, or simply move unaided, is in question" and called for interference by international institutions. Russia also said it was committed to defend World War Two veterans "against illegal prosecution in Latvia."

The Russian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday issued a statement accusing the Latvian authorities of ill-treating and actually torturing Farbtukh by refusing to grant him early release due to poor health. The statement said, "an 84-year-old invalid of the first degree unable to take care of himself, or simply move unaided, is in question" and called for interference by international institutions. Russia also said it was committed to defend World War Two veterans "against illegal prosecution in Latvia." BNS, Chas, Panorama Latvii

The president of the Bank of Latvia, Einars Repse, officially announced his intention of forming a new center-right political party, also naming his supporters, including influential businessmen and the leader of Latvia's Jewish society. The announcement was made on Tuesday on Latvia's 10th anniversary of restoration of Latvia's stately independence. Repse did not deny that the new party could also receive funding from businesses based in the affluent western port city of Ventspils, and the Ventspils Mayor Aivars Lembergs, considered one of the most influential political players in Latvia. Repse has also made a rather interesting offer on how to retain his political independence. If the suitable funding is raised, it would not only have to finance his future work, but also secure complete material, creative and political independence from the sponsors of the newly established party. Thus for Repse's work in the new party to be completely independent, he would be asking for a one-time, irreversible lump sum, and not being paid for any future work in the party. The amount of this lump sum was not mentioned.

The president of the Bank of Latvia, Einars Repse, officially announced his intention of forming a new center-right political party, also naming his supporters, including influential businessmen and the leader of Latvia's Jewish society. The announcement was made on Tuesday on Latvia's 10th anniversary of restoration of Latvia's stately independence. Repse did not deny that the new party could also receive funding from businesses based in the affluent western port city of Ventspils, and the Ventspils Mayor Aivars Lembergs, considered one of the most influential political players in Latvia. Repse has also made a rather interesting offer on how to retain his political independence. If the suitable funding is raised, it would not only have to finance his future work, but also secure complete material, creative and political independence from the sponsors of the newly established party. Thus for Repse's work in the new party to be completely independent, he would be asking for a one-time, irreversible lump sum, and not being paid for any future work in the party. The amount of this lump sum was not mentioned. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna Avize, Chas, Vesti Segodnya, Panorama Latvii, Respublika

Leaders of opposition parties questioned by LETA are indignant at the Bank of Latvia president Einars Repse's claiming reward for establishing a new right-wing party. "He does not do anything without being paid, however, nobody gives money for free, only for certain political obligations," said Juris Bojars, the chairman of the Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party, who believes that Repse should "look into his own pockets, he is a no poor man" and he has got nothing to do in politics. Bojars deputy, Saeima deputy Janis Adamsons said that he has heard all kinds of nonsense, and believes that Repse's claim is an April Fool's Day joke. Adamsons says that Latvia's Way and the People's Party should fear the new party of Repse, since the two liberal parties are drained. Janis Jurkans, the head of For Human Rights In A United Latvia (PCTVL) believes that no party can be established for a reward. "This man either lacks political experience, or he has very bad advisors," said Jurkans adding that he does not mind Repse making a new party.

Leaders of opposition parties questioned by LETA are indignant at the Bank of Latvia president Einars Repse's claiming reward for establishing a new right-wing party. "He does not do anything without being paid, however, nobody gives money for free, only for certain political obligations," said Juris Bojars, the chairman of the Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party, who believes that Repse should "look into his own pockets, he is a no poor man" and he has got nothing to do in politics. Bojars deputy, Saeima deputy Janis Adamsons said that he has heard all kinds of nonsense, and believes that Repse's claim is an April Fool's Day joke. Adamsons says that Latvia's Way and the People's Party should fear the new party of Repse, since the two liberal parties are drained. Janis Jurkans, the head of For Human Rights In A United Latvia (PCTVL) believes that no party can be established for a reward. "This man either lacks political experience, or he has very bad advisors," said Jurkans adding that he does not mind Repse making a new party. LETA

Latvia on Tuesday marked the tenth anniversary since restoration of its independence and statehood with officials making speeches about the need to continue the movement towards the European Union (EU) and NATO and to improve relations with Russia. Latvian parliament chairman Janis Straume at the parliament meeting Tuesday said the constitutional law about the Latvian state, adopted on Aug.21, 1991, marked a turning point in the history of Latvia and Europe. Latvian premier Andris Berzins agreed that in some periods Latvian-Russian relations had been dormant but have become active lately. The presidents of the two countries met in Austria, and Latvian-Russian intergovernmental commission has resumed its work. Berzins expressed hope that Latvia and Russian will soon sign the prepared intergovernmental agreements about social and economic issues.

Latvia on Tuesday marked the tenth anniversary since restoration of its independence and statehood with officials making speeches about the need to continue the movement towards the European Union (EU) and NATO and to improve relations with Russia. Latvian parliament chairman Janis Straume at the parliament meeting Tuesday said the constitutional law about the Latvian state, adopted on Aug.21, 1991, marked a turning point in the history of Latvia and Europe. Latvian premier Andris Berzins agreed that in some periods Latvian-Russian relations had been dormant but have become active lately. The presidents of the two countries met in Austria, and Latvian-Russian intergovernmental commission has resumed its work. Berzins expressed hope that Latvia and Russian will soon sign the prepared intergovernmental agreements about social and economic issues. BNS

A press briefing is scheduled for Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at 1 p.m. today. The minister will inform about pending foreign policy developments this fall.

A press briefing is scheduled for Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at 1 p.m. today. The minister will inform about pending foreign policy developments this fall. LETA

The social democrats, holding the most seats and Mayor's post on the city council in Latvia's capital Riga, wants to meet with the leaders of the for Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party in an attempt at finding out whether they do or do not want to continue cooperation on the city council. Right-from-center FF/LNNK announced last night that they would be breaking the city council coalition, but hold on to the deputy mayor's post and committee chairs. The social democrats have said that if FF/LNNK does not agree to cooperation, then the social democrats will not allow them to hold on to the leading posts in the council's structures.

The social democrats, holding the most seats and Mayor's post on the city council in Latvia's capital Riga, wants to meet with the leaders of the for Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party in an attempt at finding out whether they do or do not want to continue cooperation on the city council. Right-from-center FF/LNNK announced last night that they would be breaking the city council coalition, but hold on to the deputy mayor's post and committee chairs. The social democrats have said that if FF/LNNK does not agree to cooperation, then the social democrats will not allow them to hold on to the leading posts in the council's structures. BNS, Diena, Jauna Avize,

Soon it will be decided whether 5 MP from the former New Party faction will join Latvian Farmers’ Union. Among those 5 is also the former Chairman of the party R.Pauls.

Soon it will be decided whether 5 MP from the former New Party faction will join Latvian Farmers Union. Among those 5 is also the former Chairman of the party R.Pauls. Diena

Press Report

Press Report

An official parliament meeting and laying flowers at the Freedom Monument in Riga, as well as other events will mark the celebration of Latvia's 10th anniversary since the constitutional restoration of independence of the Republic of Latvia, a crucial turning point in the struggle for regaining an independent state. Latvia's high officials, former Supreme Council and government members, as well as foreign diplomats and parliament representatives will be attending the parliament meeting on August 21 with a speech by Parliament Speaker Janis Straume and the former chairman of the Supreme Council, Anatolijs Gorbunovs. The events will also be attended by parliament speakers from Estonia, Poland, Finland, Sweden, Norway and

An official parliament meeting and laying flowers at the Freedom Monument in Riga, as well as other events will mark the celebration of Latvia's 10th anniversary since the constitutional restoration of independence of the Republic of Latvia, a crucial turning point in the struggle for regaining an independent state. Latvia's high officials, former Supreme Council and government members, as well as foreign diplomats and parliament representatives will be attending the parliament meeting on August 21 with a speech by Parliament Speaker Janis Straume and the former chairman of the Supreme Council, Anatolijs Gorbunovs. The events will also be attended by parliament speakers from Estonia, Poland, Finland, Sweden, Norway and

Denmark, as well as the deputy speaker from Lithuania and Lithuania's former Supreme council chairman Vitautas Landsbergis, former Lithuanian prime ministers Kazimira Prunskiene and Gediminas Vagnoris and the head of the Czech Republic President office, Ivo Mathe.

Denmark, as well as the deputy speaker from Lithuania and Lithuania's former Supreme council chairman Vitautas Landsbergis, former Lithuanian prime ministers Kazimira Prunskiene and Gediminas Vagnoris and the head of the Czech Republic President office, Ivo Mathe. BNS

The board of the Riga branch of the Latvian Way (LW) party, a center-right ruling government party, and its Riga City Council faction has urged the Riga Mayor, social democrat Gundars Bojars, to step down for the policies he has implemented and for being too friendly to Russia. An open letter addressed to the Riga Mayor on Monday evening names a number of actions carried out by Bojars in which LW doubts the existence of any clear policies or actions carried out by the mayor.

The board of the Riga branch of the Latvian Way (LW) party, a center-right ruling government party, and its Riga City Council faction has urged the Riga Mayor, social democrat Gundars Bojars, to step down for the policies he has implemented and for being too friendly to Russia. An open letter addressed to the Riga Mayor on Monday evening names a number of actions carried out by Bojars in which LW doubts the existence of any clear policies or actions carried out by the mayor. BNS, Diena

The board of Latvia's right-from-center for Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party decided on Monday evening to break the coalition agreement with the social democrats on cooperation in the Riga City Council and renounce its representatives from the coalition council, but not from their posts, reported party chairman Maris Grinblats. The almost unanimous decision motivated by "countless unacceptable actions from the social democrats," like the mess in Dome Square during the presentation concert of the Russian newspaper Moskovsky Komsomolets Baltic edition, Russian youth demonstrations in Mezaparks, Riga, inviting Moscow city council representative and former KGB general Alexander Perelygin to the Riga 800 anniversary celebrations, and finally secretly erecting a statue of Peter the Great, a Russian tzar, in central Riga during the Riga 800 celebrations. FF/LNNK is against both the close relations between the social democrats and the left-wing alliance, and the council's attempts at establishing its own foreign policy.

The board of Latvia's right-from-center for Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK party decided on Monday evening to break the coalition agreement with the social democrats on cooperation in the Riga City Council and renounce its representatives from the coalition council, but not from their posts, reported party chairman Maris Grinblats. The almost unanimous decision motivated by "countless unacceptable actions from the social democrats," like the mess in Dome Square during the presentation concert of the Russian newspaper Moskovsky Komsomolets Baltic edition, Russian youth demonstrations in Mezaparks, Riga, inviting Moscow city council representative and former KGB general Alexander Perelygin to the Riga 800 anniversary celebrations, and finally secretly erecting a statue of Peter the Great, a Russian tzar, in central Riga during the Riga 800 celebrations. FF/LNNK is against both the close relations between the social democrats and the left-wing alliance, and the council's attempts at establishing its own foreign policy. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnya, Chas

In order to promote the faster naturalization of non-citizens in Latvia, the Latvian government and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) mission in Latvia plan to stage soon a broad information campaign, reported the head of the OSCE mission in Latvia, Peter Semneby. After having met Latvia's Prime Minister Andris Berzins, Semneby said "We hope that it will have the sought for effect," adding "the pace of naturalization points to what extent people feel at home in the Latvian society." Russia has previously criticized the slow naturalization process in Latvia, despite the fact that the government has reduced the fees and eased the process of gaining citizenship. Nevertheless, the OSCE mission leader commented on Russia's accusations of human rights violations against Latvia's Russian-speaking population by saying, "I don't think that Russia's accusations have any grounds, although there are still a few things Latvia must settle." The OSCE plans to submit the government with recommendations for education, based on independent research. The main thing is the quality of education, claimed Semneby - "So that teachers, who are forced to learn Latvian, can do it qualitatively. No matter what changes occur in the educational system, the quality must not suffer." Semneby considers that communication with society at the beginning of reforms as an important factor for the

In order to promote the faster naturalization of non-citizens in Latvia, the Latvian government and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) mission in Latvia plan to stage soon a broad information campaign, reported the head of the OSCE mission in Latvia, Peter Semneby. After having met Latvia's Prime Minister Andris Berzins, Semneby said "We hope that it will have the sought for effect," adding "the pace of naturalization points to what extent people feel at home in the Latvian society." Russia has previously criticized the slow naturalization process in Latvia, despite the fact that the government has reduced the fees and eased the process of gaining citizenship. Nevertheless, the OSCE mission leader commented on Russia's accusations of human rights violations against Latvia's Russian-speaking population by saying, "I don't think that Russia's accusations have any grounds, although there are still a few things Latvia must settle." The OSCE plans to submit the government with recommendations for education, based on independent research. The main thing is the quality of education, claimed Semneby - "So that teachers, who are forced to learn Latvian, can do it qualitatively. No matter what changes occur in the educational system, the quality must not suffer." Semneby considers that communication with society at the beginning of reforms as an important factor for the

successful integration of societies, "By informing of the strategic targets of reform - why it’s needed." In this sphere the government has not done enough, believes Semneby. Semneby said that ensuring constant development has been the most important in the work of his mission up until it is closed. "[The mission] will not manage to solve all the problems, but we must be sure that reforms launched and their direction will continue even after the mission is closed," said Semneby. Latvia's Prime Minister met with Semneby of the OSCE on Monday to discuss issues of cooperation between Latvia and the OSCE. The OSCE has been mainly concerned with naturalization and citizenship issues in Latvia, while lately it has also been involved in the process of forming an ombudsman institution and strengthening other human rights institutions. The OSCE mission also monitors the implementation of the state language law in Latvia. Latvia hopes that the OSCE mission will be closed at the end of this year together with the mission in Estonia, hinting at the fact that the OSCE sees no serious problems in the sphere of human rights.

successful integration of societies, "By informing of the strategic targets of reform - why its needed." In this sphere the government has not done enough, believes Semneby. Semneby said that ensuring constant development has been the most important in the work of his mission up until it is closed. "[The mission] will not manage to solve all the problems, but we must be sure that reforms launched and their direction will continue even after the mission is closed," said Semneby. Latvia's Prime Minister met with Semneby of the OSCE on Monday to discuss issues of cooperation between Latvia and the OSCE. The OSCE has been mainly concerned with naturalization and citizenship issues in Latvia, while lately it has also been involved in the process of forming an ombudsman institution and strengthening other human rights institutions. The OSCE mission also monitors the implementation of the state language law in Latvia. Latvia hopes that the OSCE mission will be closed at the end of this year together with the mission in Estonia, hinting at the fact that the OSCE sees no serious problems in the sphere of human rights. BNS

Political scientist A.Pabriks writes that 10 years after Latvia escaped from the Soviet Union there had to be two basic values for Latvia to observe: 1) free, European and democratic Latvia; 2) Latvian language as the only all-round language in this state. “Only by uniting society around these values we would create criteria for long time existence. In the Baltic Region the language is the factor determining our nationality. If a person can not speak Latvian he is a “stranger”. It means that also a Russian, Byelorussian, German, etc, if he speaks Latvian he is looked upon as “ours””. According to the latest statistics there are 62% of such people in Latvia. Although the Latvian language is the language of majority, its development is not imaginary in the completely free culture market. Thus state’s interference in the language and culture environment is not an anti-liberal feature. Just the opposite – the goal of such interference is one of the basic values of European culture – equality. And if we want those people who do not speak the Latvian language to master it we should motive them not to punish.

Political scientist A.Pabriks writes that 10 years after Latvia escaped from the Soviet Union there had to be two basic values for Latvia to observe: 1) free, European and democratic Latvia; 2) Latvian language as the only all-round language in this state. Only by uniting society around these values we would create criteria for long time existence. In the Baltic Region the language is the factor determining our nationality. If a person can not speak Latvian he is a stranger. It means that also a Russian, Byelorussian, German, etc, if he speaks Latvian he is looked upon as ours. According to the latest statistics there are 62% of such people in Latvia. Although the Latvian language is the language of majority, its development is not imaginary in the completely free culture market. Thus states interference in the language and culture environment is not an anti-liberal feature. Just the opposite – the goal of such interference is one of the basic values of European culture – equality. And if we want those people who do not speak the Latvian language to master it we should motive them not to punish. Diena

Two U.S. Republican senators and active supporters of the Baltic NATO bid, Richard G. Lugar and John McCain will be arriving in Latvia this weekend on an official visit, reports the Latvian president's office. The senators are set to meet President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, as well as the Prime Minister Andris Berzins.

Two U.S. Republican senators and active supporters of the Baltic NATO bid, Richard G. Lugar and John McCain will be arriving in Latvia this weekend on an official visit, reports the Latvian president's office. The senators are set to meet President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, as well as the Prime Minister Andris Berzins.

Control Commission of Social Democrats will call MP J.Leja to recall his signature under the letter of Publisher A.Garda to EU Commissioner G.Verheugen. J.Leja informed Press Agency LETA that he did not intend to recall his signature because he had not violated ether the program or statutes of the Party.

Control Commission of Social Democrats will call MP J.Leja to recall his signature under the letter of Publisher A.Garda to EU Commissioner G.Verheugen. J.Leja informed Press Agency LETA that he did not intend to recall his signature because he had not violated ether the program or statutes of the Party. Diena, Jauna Avize, Lauku Avize

Jauna Avize

published an open letter of A.Garda where he answers to the accusations made by journalist J.Streips. A.Garda insisted that Latvia should be decolonised. published an open letter of A.Garda where he answers to the accusations made by journalist J.Streips. A.Garda insisted that Latvia should be decolonised. Newspaper

Newspaper Lauku Avize interviewed several known people in Latvia about the threat to Latvias existance as a national state. All these people agreed that such a threat existed and would exist until Latvia joined NATO. Publicist V.Lacis thinks that that there is a great danger not only from the growth of Russias government imperialistic intentions but also from the same thing in the Russian community in Latvia. It is becoming more and more organised.

Lauku Avize

asked MPs and security police officers what they thought about the movement Solidarnostj. D.Kudums from FF/LNNK said that from time to time such organisations appeared. It would be god if the goal of such organisations were to make common cause between national minorities and Latvian nation, but Solidarnostj was more likely acting to oppose nations. Dz.Abikis thinks that somebody from aside manages this organisation; it is not an initiative of those youngsters themselves. J.Pliner, For Human Rights in United Latvia has read about it only in the mass media. If those youngsters are not manipulated with and if they try to achieve their goals with democratic means, it is a good thing. G.Rutkis Deputy Head of Security Police said that they had examined the registration of this organisation and found just some formal violations but concerning the event in Mezaparks, it had turned out opposite to what was stated. Instead of the announced goal to further integration and support Latvias movement towards NATO the event took a completely different direction. asked MPs and security police officers what they thought about the movement Solidarnostj. D.Kudums from FF/LNNK said that from time to time such organisations appeared. It would be god if the goal of such organisations were to make common cause between national minorities and Latvian nation, but Solidarnostj was more likely acting to oppose nations. Dz.Abikis thinks that somebody from aside manages this organisation; it is not an initiative of those youngsters themselves. J.Pliner, For Human Rights in United Latvia has read about it only in the mass media. If those youngsters are not manipulated with and if they try to achieve their goals with democratic means, it is a good thing. G.Rutkis Deputy Head of Security Police said that they had examined the registration of this organisation and found just some formal violations but concerning the event in Mezaparks, it had turned out opposite to what was stated. Instead of the announced goal to further integration and support Latvia’s movement towards NATO the event took a completely different direction. Newspaper

Newspaper Chas has received information that State Enterprise Register addressed Security police with a request to examine the activities of youth movement Solidarnostj. It is possible that after this the movement cold lose its official status. The leader of Solidarnostj I.Stalnoy said that they had nothing to be afraid of and such activities of state authorities proved that they lived under a regime.

Latvian Social Democratic Workers’ Party Chairman J.Bojars was surprised about the statement made by one of Party’s leaders J.Adamsons that Social Democrats would unite with J.Jurkans’s People’s Harmony Party. J.Bojars assured that none of Social Democrats decision taking institutions had discussed such a possibility.

Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party Chairman J.Bojars was surprised about the statement made by one of Partys leaders J.Adamsons that Social Democrats would unite with J.Jurkanss Peoples Harmony Party. J.Bojars assured that none of Social Democrats decision taking institutions had discussed such a possibility. Rigas Balss

Press Report

Riga department of Latvia's Way (LC) in conjunction with the party's faction at the Riga City Council will hold a joint emergency session today in order to decide on demanding resignation of the Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars, LETA was told by the LC press secretary Dace Gulbe. The LC faction at the Riga City Council believes that Bojars' action in accepting placing the monument to Peter I in the night-time was absolutely unacceptable and also points towards totalitarianism. The People's Party and For Fatherland And Freedom/LNNK have also said they are indignant at setting up the monument to the Russian Czar in downtown Riga.

Riga department of Latvia's Way (LC) in conjunction with the party's faction at the Riga City Council will hold a joint emergency session today in order to decide on demanding resignation of the Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars, LETA was told by the LC press secretary Dace Gulbe. The LC faction at the Riga City Council believes that Bojars' action in accepting placing the monument to Peter I in the night-time was absolutely unacceptable and also points towards totalitarianism. The People's Party and For Fatherland And Freedom/LNNK have also said they are indignant at setting up the monument to the Russian Czar in downtown Riga. LETA

Riga Mayor G.Bojars in an interview to the newspaper Panorama Latvii stated that the capital of Latvia Riga needed its own foreign policy. Prime Minister A.Berzins did not find this statement to be acceptable because there should be only one foreign policy – the one realised by the President, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other state institutions. Activities of Social Democrats prove about the change in their foreign policy orientation. In his interview the mayor said that Riga foreign policy would not contradict the national foreign policy, but it should be directed towards the interests of Riga City.

Riga Mayor G.Bojars in an interview to the newspaper Panorama Latvii stated that the capital of Latvia Riga needed its own foreign policy. Prime Minister A.Berzins did not find this statement to be acceptable because there should be only one foreign policy – the one realised by the President, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other state institutions. Activities of Social Democrats prove about the change in their foreign policy orientation. In his interview the mayor said that Riga foreign policy would not contradict the national foreign policy, but it should be directed towards the interests of Riga City. Diena,

More and more residents of Latvia interest about a possibility to repatriate to Russia. Reasons are different but the basic one is their wish to return to the place where they feel at home. Yesterday one repatriate received a financial support for his travel expenses. So far there is no local institution that would officially deal with emigrants. Repatriation Center is working only with Latvians and citizens of Latvia who want to return to Latvia. But with those who want to return to Russia is dealing Russian Federation Migration Service. As representative of this Service T.Slichkova told

More and more residents of Latvia interest about a possibility to repatriate to Russia. Reasons are different but the basic one is their wish to return to the place where they feel at home. Yesterday one repatriate received a financial support for his travel expenses. So far there is no local institution that would officially deal with emigrants. Repatriation Center is working only with Latvians and citizens of Latvia who want to return to Latvia. But with those who want to return to Russia is dealing Russian Federation Migration Service. As representative of this Service T.Slichkova told Rigas Balss journalist that annually about 1.5 to 2 000 people move to Russia. This year even more people have come to their office to get information about possibilities to emigrate. Their number has increased for 1/3. Lauku Avize

On August 17 Prime Minister A.Berzins met with Governor of St.Petersburg V.Jakovlev who arrived with a delegation to Riga 800 festivity. Using this Governor’s visit to Riga Russian President V.Putin sent his greeting to the Latvian government and expresses his pleasant memories about hiss meeting with Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga. During the meeting with the Governor A.Berzins pointed out that good neighbourly relations with Russia was one of Latvian foreign policy priorities and said that Latvia remembered August 24, 1991 when Russia was one the first countries to recognise independence of Latvia. A.Berzins pointed out that it was a good cornerstone to build good relations between those two countries.

On August 17 Prime Minister A.Berzins met with Governor of St.Petersburg V.Jakovlev who arrived with a delegation to Riga 800 festivity. Using this Governors visit to Riga Russian President V.Putin sent his greeting to the Latvian government and expresses his pleasant memories about hiss meeting with Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga. During the meeting with the Governor A.Berzins pointed out that good neighbourly relations with Russia was one of Latvian foreign policy priorities and said that Latvia remembered August 24, 1991 when Russia was one the first countries to recognise independence of Latvia. A.Berzins pointed out that it was a good cornerstone to build good relations between those two countries. Latvijas Vestnesis, Vesti Segodnya, Chas, Panorama Latvii,

Russian speaking newspaper

Russian speaking newspaper Vesti Segodnya writes that during the celebration of Riga 800 festivity the authorities had managed to ensure the absolute minimum of the Russian language in the city with 60% of Russian population. And the President was charged with the honorary task to rewrite the history of Riga. During the official reception at the House of Blackheads V.Vike-Freiberga gave a speech full of appraising German – Baltic relations. When speaking about the influence of Baltic Germans the President did not mention the cruel baptising of local people and 700 years of slavery.

Author of a Latvian language textbook for 2nd class Dz.Paegle gives in the texts of this book a definition of KGB officer “USSR KGB officer – spy, interrogator, torturer. Several texts of this book are describing deportations of Latvians. Several Latvian teachers have expressed their concern that such descriptions of deportation atrocities could influence sensitive children and it could endanger integration process – children could associate the term “KGB officer” with all Russians.

Author of a Latvian language textbook for 2nd class Dz.Paegle gives in the texts of this book a definition of KGB officer USSR KGB officer – spy, interrogator, torturer. Several texts of this book are describing deportations of Latvians. Several Latvian teachers have expressed their concern that such descriptions of deportation atrocities could influence sensitive children and it could endanger integration process – children could associate the term KGB officer with all Russians. Vesti Segodnya, Respublika