Press Report

Press Report

Latvia's top watchdog, the Constitutional Protection Office (CPO), has refused to file a criminal case on a book recently published by Vieda. The CPO deputy director Uldis Dzenitis told BNS that a criminal case has been refused because the book, sharply criticised by Russia and controversially spoken of in Latvia, has not been evaluated as promoting national hatred. Dzenitis said that on investigation the CPO interviewed both authors and people having criticised the competition and book. The CPO concluded that, although sharp discussions were aroused by the competition, partially provoked by the Vieda publishing house's organised competition and book, it nevertheless is more of a political nature and should thus be looked upon according to the constitutional rights to religious and political freedom and freedom of speech. Dzenitis said that the CPO decision may be dropped by the Prosecutor General who in turn may refuse filing a criminal case, but motivate the decision differently. The Prosecutor General may also carry out additional investigation or request other respective institutions to do so, and also has the possibility of filing a criminal case. There is no legal deadline by which the Prosecutor General must make a decision.

Latvia's top watchdog, the Constitutional Protection Office (CPO), has refused to file a criminal case on a book recently published by Vieda. The CPO deputy director Uldis Dzenitis told BNS that a criminal case has been refused because the book, sharply criticised by Russia and controversially spoken of in Latvia, has not been evaluated as promoting national hatred. Dzenitis said that on investigation the CPO interviewed both authors and people having criticised the competition and book. The CPO concluded that, although sharp discussions were aroused by the competition, partially provoked by the Vieda publishing house's organised competition and book, it nevertheless is more of a political nature and should thus be looked upon according to the constitutional rights to religious and political freedom and freedom of speech. Dzenitis said that the CPO decision may be dropped by the Prosecutor General who in turn may refuse filing a criminal case, but motivate the decision differently. The Prosecutor General may also carry out additional investigation or request other respective institutions to do so, and also has the possibility of filing a criminal case. There is no legal deadline by which the Prosecutor General must make a decision. Chas, Vesti Segodnja

Two Russian newspapers –

Two Russian newspapers – Chas and Panorama Latvii – have received threat letters from a committee For Latvia, Free from Russian Occupants. Chas compares the style and content of the letter with the essays included in Viedas book. Chas has forwarded the letter to the Constitution Protection Office.

Chas

gives brief comments to the Law on Detective Profession just recently adopted by the Saeima. According to the Law all detectives will have to undergo repeated registration and this time their citizenship status and language skills will be considered. gives brief comments to the Law on Detective Profession just recently adopted by the Saeima. According to the Law all detectives will have to undergo repeated registration and this time their citizenship status and language skills will be considered. ChasChas provides the comments of the former interior minister of Latvian Soviet Republic and honour member of Detectives Association B.Shteinbrik I think the more people fight with criminals the better. Now there are about 100 members in our Association and after re-registration there will be much lesser. The question is – who will benefit from that? provides the comments of the former interior minister of Latvian Soviet Republic and honour member of Detectives Association B.Shteinbrik “I think the more people fight with criminals the better. Now there are about 100 members in our Association and after re-registration there will be much lesser. The question is – who will benefit from that?” “After what has happened in Macedonia, Latvian authorities have worship the leaders of Russian-speaking organisations – thanking them for their ability to fight for the rights of national minorities only with peaceful measures”, said FHRUL deputy B.Cilevich and gives more complete analyses of the situations of Russians in Latvia and Albanians in Macedonia.

After what has happened in Macedonia, Latvian authorities have worship the leaders of Russian-speaking organisations – thanking them for their ability to fight for the rights of national minorities only with peaceful measures, said FHRUL deputy B.Cilevich and gives more complete analyses of the situations of Russians in Latvia and Albanians in Macedonia. Vesti Segodnja

During summer months naturalisation rate has dropped very significantly, writes

During summer months naturalisation rate has dropped very significantly, writes Vesti Segodnja. The newspaper gives deeper analyses of the current situation of non-citizens. Just recently the Latvian Government awarded non-citizens with three extra bonuses – first, recalculations of pensions for non-citizens are not going to happen, second, non-citizens are not entitled to obtain detectives license and, third, it was re-approved that the members of the Constitutional Court can be only citizens. According to the columnist all people who wanted to get naturalised have already done that. The columnist also draws attention to the fact that integration and naturalisation projects are funded by everybody but the Latvian Government. He explains that in general Latvian Government and community are quite happy that such vast number of people (non-citizens) are excluded from public affairs and are fulfil vacancies of non- prestigious jobs. The article is concluded with the assumption that the majority of non-citizens still believe in the re-union of the former Soviet Republics. Vesti Segodnja

Friday night somebody set fire at the door of famous “Radio Russia” journalist V.Bochkovoy’s apartment in Riga. V.Bochkova does not think that it is just an accident – she links the fire with her publications on violations of the rights of non-citizens, closure of Russian schools and scandal around the essay contest organised by Vieda.

Friday night somebody set fire at the door of famous Radio Russia journalist V.Bochkovoys apartment in Riga. V.Bochkova does not think that it is just an accident – she links the fire with her publications on violations of the rights of non-citizens, closure of Russian schools and scandal around the essay contest organised by Vieda. Vesti Segodnja

 

 Press Report

Press Report

Latvian environment minister called on foreign minister to simplify Latvian visa acquiring procedures for Russian and CIS states nationals during the next tourism season. Environment Protection and Regional Development Minister Vladimirs Makarovs also voiced readiness to develop respective legislative amendments. Makarovs urged Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins to hold a meeting with Environment Protection and Regional Development Ministry, tourism industry representatives and state institutions to discuss possibilities to simplify visa procedures.

Latvian environment minister called on foreign minister to simplify Latvian visa acquiring procedures for Russian and CIS states nationals during the next tourism season. Environment Protection and Regional Development Minister Vladimirs Makarovs also voiced readiness to develop respective legislative amendments. Makarovs urged Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins to hold a meeting with Environment Protection and Regional Development Ministry, tourism industry representatives and state institutions to discuss possibilities to simplify visa procedures. Diena, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika

Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will be off on vacation next week from July 8 to 17, planning to spend some of her time in Finland, reported the President's office. Vike-Freiberga will be on a private visit to Finland between July 13 and 16 upon invitation of Finland's President Tarje Halonen.

Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will be off on vacation next week from July 8 to 17, planning to spend some of her time in Finland, reported the President's office. Vike-Freiberga will be on a private visit to Finland between July 13 and 16 upon invitation of Finland's President Tarje Halonen. Diena, Panorama Latvii

Latvia and Ukraine Wednesday agreed on the procedure for application of agreement on co-operation in the area of social security between the two countries. The agreement on the application procedure was signed by Latvian Welfare Ministry and Ukrainian Labour and Social Policy Ministry, Welfare Ministry press office reported.

Latvia and Ukraine Wednesday agreed on the procedure for application of agreement on co-operation in the area of social security between the two countries. The agreement on the application procedure was signed by Latvian Welfare Ministry and Ukrainian Labour and Social Policy Ministry, Welfare Ministry press office reported.

The agreement envisages to ensure that social security rights already acquired and still anticipated by Latvian and Ukrainian nationals are retained while moving in territories of both countries. The agreement also will eliminate double collecting of social insurance payments in both countries. Latvia and Ukraine set out the same rights and obligations in regard to social security system services to nationals of the other country and their families residing permanently or having employment in one of the countries who are moving from one country to the other, as have nationals of own country. The agreement ensures retention of the right to social security allowances and pensions, summing up previously accrued periods, as well as pension export.

The agreement envisages to ensure that social security rights already acquired and still anticipated by Latvian and Ukrainian nationals are retained while moving in territories of both countries. The agreement also will eliminate double collecting of social insurance payments in both countries. Latvia and Ukraine set out the same rights and obligations in regard to social security system services to nationals of the other country and their families residing permanently or having employment in one of the countries who are moving from one country to the other, as have nationals of own country. The agreement ensures retention of the right to social security allowances and pensions, summing up previously accrued periods, as well as pension export. Neatkariga

It is expected that the implementation of the projects included in the Society Integration Programme could be launched in the fall this year, as yesterday the Saeima adopted the Law on Integration Foundation, which is planned to be the main finance administrative body for integration projects.

It is expected that the implementation of the projects included in the Society Integration Programme could be launched in the fall this year, as yesterday the Saeima adopted the Law on Integration Foundation, which is planned to be the main finance administrative body for integration projects. Diena, Chas, Vesti Segodnja

Yesterday ITAR-TASS deputy general director and moderator of popular TV show “Formula of Power” M.Gusman interviewed Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga. M.Gusman said that the meeting was extremely interesting and our President in his view is smart and feels her communication partners very well. The interview will be aired on Russian TV channel ORT in the beginning of August.

Yesterday ITAR-TASS deputy general director and moderator of popular TV show Formula of Power M.Gusman interviewed Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga. M.Gusman said that the meeting was extremely interesting and our President in his view is smart and feels her communication partners very well. The interview will be aired on Russian TV channel ORT in the beginning of August. Chas

The Latvian Government can re-consider the draft agreement on social security with Russia. Prime Minister comments the position of the ruling parties “the issue is – where to get such amount of funds? The final decision is not taken yet. We are waiting for more accurate calculations and then we are able to define the position of our delegation”. The calculations have to be presented on Monday.

The Latvian Government can re-consider the draft agreement on social security with Russia. Prime Minister comments the position of the ruling parties the issue is – where to get such amount of funds? The final decision is not taken yet. We are waiting for more accurate calculations and then we are able to define the position of our delegation. The calculations have to be presented on Monday. Vesti Segodnja

Daugavpils City Council Mayor R.Eigims is ready for the examination of his state language skills, the test will take place on 13 July. The inspectors of the State Language Centre will examine mayor’s writing skills.

Daugavpils City Council Mayor R.Eigims is ready for the examination of his state language skills, the test will take place on 13 July. The inspectors of the State Language Centre will examine mayors writing skills. Vesti Segodnja

“I am improving my language skills all the time and am going to continue as long as it takes”, said R.Eigims. He is sure that he will pass the exam on 13 July. The language inspectors evaluated mayor’s language skills to be on the third level. In the last examination it was established that Eigim’s speaking ability corresponds to the third category, degree A, however, the inspectors found different grammar mistakes and sometimes confusion of words, but, according to their opinion, it does not disturb communication. Also his reading skills correspond to the third level. The mayor is able to read and comprehend texts of different content and degree of difficulty.

I am improving my language skills all the time and am going to continue as long as it takes, said R.Eigims. He is sure that he will pass the exam on 13 July. The language inspectors evaluated mayors language skills to be on the third level. In the last examination it was established that Eigims speaking ability corresponds to the third category, degree A, however, the inspectors found different grammar mistakes and sometimes confusion of words, but, according to their opinion, it does not disturb communication. Also his reading skills correspond to the third level. The mayor is able to read and comprehend texts of different content and degree of difficulty. Respublika

Panorama Latvii writes about Daugavpils’ resident who filed a claim with the European Court of Human Rights. Below is a full translation of the article:

Panorama Latvii writes about Daugavpils resident who filed a claim with the European Court of Human Rights. Below is a full translation of the article:

“The unemployed I.Vasilevsky who filed a claim with the court against the President and Latvian Parliament, now has launched a battle with the whole country. Couple years ago the name of Daugavpils’ resident I.Vasilevsky became well known in the whole country. And it could not be otherwise, as he started the fight with the President of that time G.Ulmanis and the Saeima, because I.Vasilevsky considered that the State Language Law violated his rights. As he did not held a certificate verifying his Latvian language skills he lost his job. “It is unfair!”, - he announced and filed a claim with the court. The servants of Justice did not agree with I. Vasilevsky, however, the refusal did not stop Vasilevsky. In these days the European Court of Human Rights accepted for the revision the case of I.Vasilevsky. “I am disputing the norm which denies non-citizens the rights to participate at municipal election”, explains Igors basing his claim on particular norms of the Constitution, Independence Declaration and Declaration on Human Rights. We talked with I.Vasilevsky and have an impression that he truly believes that one individual claim filed with the European Court of Human Rights can solve problems of hundred thousand our compatriots deprived the rights to vote and run for elections. “Afterwards I will look into Pension Law, which also discriminates the rights of non-citizens”. He himself worked for a long time outside the territory of Latvia and in result his pension amounts to LVL 33. Igor disputed this injustice at several courts, and now his appeal is at the Supreme Court of the Republic of Latvia. Probably, some of our readers will look at the undertakings of Vasilevsky with big scepticism – like, anyway he will not succeed. From my party, I just want to remind that nothing can change if nothing is done. And who knows, maybe others will follow his example”.

The unemployed I.Vasilevsky who filed a claim with the court against the President and Latvian Parliament, now has launched a battle with the whole country. Couple years ago the name of Daugavpils resident I.Vasilevsky became well known in the whole country. And it could not be otherwise, as he started the fight with the President of that time G.Ulmanis and the Saeima, because I.Vasilevsky considered that the State Language Law violated his rights. As he did not held a certificate verifying his Latvian language skills he lost his job. It is unfair!, - he announced and filed a claim with the court. The servants of Justice did not agree with I. Vasilevsky, however, the refusal did not stop Vasilevsky. In these days the European Court of Human Rights accepted for the revision the case of I.Vasilevsky. I am disputing the norm which denies non-citizens the rights to participate at municipal election, explains Igors basing his claim on particular norms of the Constitution, Independence Declaration and Declaration on Human Rights. We talked with I.Vasilevsky and have an impression that he truly believes that one individual claim filed with the European Court of Human Rights can solve problems of hundred thousand our compatriots deprived the rights to vote and run for elections. Afterwards I will look into Pension Law, which also discriminates the rights of non-citizens. He himself worked for a long time outside the territory of Latvia and in result his pension amounts to LVL 33. Igor disputed this injustice at several courts, and now his appeal is at the Supreme Court of the Republic of Latvia. Probably, some of our readers will look at the undertakings of Vasilevsky with big scepticism – like, anyway he will not succeed. From my party, I just want to remind that nothing can change if nothing is done. And who knows, maybe others will follow his example.

Yesterday the Law on Detective’s Profession, which provides for that only citizens of Latvia can receive licenses to work as detectives.

Yesterday the Law on Detectives Profession, which provides for that only citizens of Latvia can receive licenses to work as detectives. Delfi

Press Report

Press Report

Three quarters or 75.9 percent of residents of the Latvian capital believe Riga City Council should promote economic co-operation with Russia and other CIS countries, a public opinion poll shows.

Three quarters or 75.9 percent of residents of the Latvian capital believe Riga City Council should promote economic co-operation with Russia and other CIS countries, a public opinion poll shows. Lauku Avize, Chas

After 100 days Daugavpils City Council experiences instability in the ruling coalition. Although Daugavpils mayor R.Eigims voices that it had no influence on Council’s work, the response of Daugavpils’ means of mass media and the statements of other parties show that political battle has started again. Yesterday Daugavpils City Party headed by the former Daugavpils’ mayor A.Vidavskis came up with the statement for the residents saying that Eigims’ party activities cause real threats to democracy in the city.

After 100 days Daugavpils City Council experiences instability in the ruling coalition. Although Daugavpils mayor R.Eigims voices that it had no influence on Councils work, the response of Daugavpils means of mass media and the statements of other parties show that political battle has started again. Yesterday Daugavpils City Party headed by the former Daugavpils mayor A.Vidavskis came up with the statement for the residents saying that Eigims party activities cause real threats to democracy in the city. Diena, Chas, Respublika

Riga vice-mayor paid a visit to Belarus capital Minsk where he studied Minsk's experience in apartment construction and discussed the possibilities to expand cargo transit via Riga port. Currently S.Dolgopolovs is visiting St.Petersburg.

Riga vice-mayor paid a visit to Belarus capital Minsk where he studied Minsk's experience in apartment construction and discussed the possibilities to expand cargo transit via Riga port. Currently S.Dolgopolovs is visiting St.Petersburg. Diena, Vesti Segodnja

As of today till 8 of July repeated municipal election takes place in the rural district Preili. The residents inquired by

As of today till 8 of July repeated municipal election takes place in the rural district Preili. The residents inquired by Neatkariga complained about incorrect pre-election campaigns of the parties. According to the unofficial sources of information one of the leading parties had bought and legitimated passports in order to win election. Neatkariga, Jauna

Discussions about re-calculation of non-citizens pensions is going on.

Discussions about re-calculation of non-citizens pensions is going on. Lauku Avize tried to find out accurate numbers of non-citizens whose pensions should be re-calculated and the amount which should be paid to them, however, the Ministry of Welfare responded that there is no such data base and no such calculations have been made. Welfare minister A.Pozharnov does not agree with the Coalition about the exclusion of this part from the agreement with Russia, he says according to approximate calculations it would cost Latvia LVL 2 million a year – we have to evaluate what we gain from other agreements with Russia, whether they compensate this amount.

It has been 100 days since the mayor of Riga City Council is Social Democrat G.Bojars.

It has been 100 days since the mayor of Riga City Council is Social Democrat G.Bojars. Lauku Avize as his biggest successes names the establishment of the Coalition at Riga City Council and election of both vice-mayors. Among the failures the newspaper names the decree on awarding Council deputies with big bonuses although they had been working only for a month. The most serious challenge for the mayor will be the organisation of the days of Riga 800 anniversary. Rigas Balss

State Language Centre director Dz.Hirsha considers that the Federal Russian Language Programme adopted by the Russian Government is an attempt of intervention and it could result in bilingual situation in Latvia.

State Language Centre director Dz.Hirsha considers that the Federal Russian Language Programme adopted by the Russian Government is an attempt of intervention and it could result in bilingual situation in Latvia. Chas hopes that radicals would not undertake any measures to stop the activities of the programme. Respublika

Yesterday Saeima ruling Coalition gave a press conference “Achievements and Failures of 7th Saeima”. The initiators of the conference were the members of the economic union “Union of Economists – 2010” minister R.Zile and ex-ministers O.Kehris and E.Krastinshs. The victory at the next election is very important as particularly at that period Latvia would join the EU and NATO, were admitted by all participants. Prime Minister A.Berzinsh doubts the possibility of formation of a new political party and O.Kehris even doubts possibility to establish more friendly relations among the ruling parties. As the biggest failure all parties named discrediting of privatisation process.

Yesterday Saeima ruling Coalition gave a press conference Achievements and Failures of 7th Saeima. The initiators of the conference were the members of the economic union Union of Economists – 2010 minister R.Zile and ex-ministers O.Kehris and E.Krastinshs. The victory at the next election is very important as particularly at that period Latvia would join the EU and NATO, were admitted by all participants. Prime Minister A.Berzinsh doubts the possibility of formation of a new political party and O.Kehris even doubts possibility to establish more friendly relations among the ruling parties. As the biggest failure all parties named discrediting of privatisation process. Respublika

Respublika

re-publishes President V.Vike-Freibergas interview for Salzburger Nachrichten. The main questions were in regard to the attitude of the people of Latvia to the EU, Latvias membership in the EU and NATO, Latvia and Russia. As the main Latvias problem in the accession process to the EU the President voices the lack of funds. In regard to the membership to NATO, V.Vike-Freiberga says that the sooner Latvia joins NATO, the better gets relations with Russia.

Respublika

launches new series of discussions on the topics actual for society. The participants of the first discussion are the columnist of launches new series of discussions on the topics actual for society. The participants of the first discussion are the columnist of RespublikaRespublika Z.Kacs, Naturalisation Board deputy head J.Kahanovich, NHRO legal adviser J.Butkevichs, Latvian Human Rights Institute deputy director M.Mits, Human Rights and Ethnic Research Centre director N.Muizhnieks, Latvian Human Rights Committee member L.Raihmans and the subject of the discussion is different problems concerning human rights and national minority rights in Latvia. Z.Kacs, Naturalisation Board deputy head J.Kahanovich, NHRO legal adviser J.Butkevichs, Latvian Human Rights Institute deputy director M.Mits, Human Rights and Ethnic Research Centre director N.Muizhnieks, Latvian Human Rights Committee member L.Raihmans and the subject of the discussion is different problems concerning human rights and national minority rights in Latvia. Social Democrat V.Lazo gives her opinion about the Law on Integration Foundation.

Social Democrat V.Lazo gives her opinion about the Law on Integration Foundation. Panorama Latvii quotes V.Lazo we expected that Russians would leave just after Latvia regained its independence. If at that moment we had asked the international organisations to provide financial assistance to help these people to leave for their ethnic countries, we would have received big support. Now foreign foundations and organisations view the processes in Latvia with not such a big concern as process in Macedonia, however, the processes taking place here are important on the world scale.

Press Report

Press Report

A group of Latvia's scientists who developed a report on ethnic policy in Latvia called on the government to allocate appropriate financing to promote culture development of national minorities and set up a mechanism of dialogue between the government and minorities. Authors of the research -- a group of outstanding Latvian scientists --believe last year no society integration measures have taken place but rather public rallies splitting society. Authors of the research Ethnic Policy in Latvia also recommend the Latvian parliament to ratify the Council of Europe convention on protection of national minorities, defining limitations underscoring specific circumstances in Latvia. University of Latvia Philosophy and Social Sciences Institute researcher Leo Dribins said the convention is a "time bomb and the question should be raised at the level of general politics". He said the Convention is not a political ultimatum and Latvia should present to the Council of Europe possible objections Latvia may have to certain provisions under the convention. The authors of the research consider the ruling coalition parties centrist Latvia's Way and right-to-the-centre People's Party so far have not revealed their ethnic political views. The ethnic policy direction is most vividly expressed in programs of Social Democrats, leftist National Harmony Party and nationalist Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK party. The research Ethnic Policy in Latvia said Latvians in Latvia do not have ethnic public organisation aimed at ethnic policy. But Russian minorities, especially in Latvia's regions, have several such organisations, including politicised non-governmental organisations that are attempting to take involvement in decision making process. Editor-in-chief of the research and project manager philosopher Elmars Vebers said Latvian media do not show much interest in opinions of national minorities on a variety of issues, thus not promoting process of mutual understanding and integration in society. Authors of the research underscored there is no mechanism in Latvia at the government level for building dialogue between a variety of ethnic groups. The law on national minorities actually has not been implemented, it is "over-protocolled" and should be improved. Recommendations to report said Latvia should raise investment into projects aimed at retaining and improving national minorities culture, language and traditions, thus enriching Latvia's common culture environment. The authors of the research, including Ilga Apine, Leo Dribins, Arturs Jansons, Elmars Vebers, Vladislavs Volkovs and Sigita Zankovka have gathered and analysed data about social, culture and political activities of Latvia's national minorities as well as solution of ethnic policy issues in the areas of language, culture, education and society information.

A group of Latvia's scientists who developed a report on ethnic policy in Latvia called on the government to allocate appropriate financing to promote culture development of national minorities and set up a mechanism of dialogue between the government and minorities. Authors of the research -- a group of outstanding Latvian scientists --believe last year no society integration measures have taken place but rather public rallies splitting society. Authors of the research Ethnic Policy in Latvia also recommend the Latvian parliament to ratify the Council of Europe convention on protection of national minorities, defining limitations underscoring specific circumstances in Latvia. University of Latvia Philosophy and Social Sciences Institute researcher Leo Dribins said the convention is a "time bomb and the question should be raised at the level of general politics". He said the Convention is not a political ultimatum and Latvia should present to the Council of Europe possible objections Latvia may have to certain provisions under the convention. The authors of the research consider the ruling coalition parties centrist Latvia's Way and right-to-the-centre People's Party so far have not revealed their ethnic political views. The ethnic policy direction is most vividly expressed in programs of Social Democrats, leftist National Harmony Party and nationalist Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK party. The research Ethnic Policy in Latvia said Latvians in Latvia do not have ethnic public organisation aimed at ethnic policy. But Russian minorities, especially in Latvia's regions, have several such organisations, including politicised non-governmental organisations that are attempting to take involvement in decision making process. Editor-in-chief of the research and project manager philosopher Elmars Vebers said Latvian media do not show much interest in opinions of national minorities on a variety of issues, thus not promoting process of mutual understanding and integration in society. Authors of the research underscored there is no mechanism in Latvia at the government level for building dialogue between a variety of ethnic groups. The law on national minorities actually has not been implemented, it is "over-protocolled" and should be improved. Recommendations to report said Latvia should raise investment into projects aimed at retaining and improving national minorities culture, language and traditions, thus enriching Latvia's common culture environment. The authors of the research, including Ilga Apine, Leo Dribins, Arturs Jansons, Elmars Vebers, Vladislavs Volkovs and Sigita Zankovka have gathered and analysed data about social, culture and political activities of Latvia's national minorities as well as solution of ethnic policy issues in the areas of language, culture, education and society information. Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna, Chas, Vesti Segodnja, Respublika

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga had a brief informal meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov as part of Salzburg Economic Forum and invited him to visit Latvia. The two officials met in a reception held by Austrian president Monday evening and the conversation lasted for some five minutes. The conversation focused mainly on economic co-operation and Vike-Freiberga reported to Kasyanov about latest economic developments in Latvia. The two officials also spoke about co-operation in Central and Eastern Europe underscoring the forum was useful as it provided a chance for politicians and business people to meet and discuss regional and bilateral co-operation issues. The president on Tuesday joined a thematic dinner that was attended by some 100 guests and to which Kasyanov was the main speaker. Rozenberga said Vike-Freiberga in Salzburg also met leader of Russian party Yabloko, Grigory Yavlinsky, who underscored the important role of relations between Russia and the Baltic states in Russia's democratisation process as well as in the dialogue of Russia with Nordic states and the rest of Europe. Yavlinsky told the president that accession of the Baltic states, including Latvia, to NATO is the right of sovereign countries to choose security guarantees for the future.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga had a brief informal meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov as part of Salzburg Economic Forum and invited him to visit Latvia. The two officials met in a reception held by Austrian president Monday evening and the conversation lasted for some five minutes. The conversation focused mainly on economic co-operation and Vike-Freiberga reported to Kasyanov about latest economic developments in Latvia. The two officials also spoke about co-operation in Central and Eastern Europe underscoring the forum was useful as it provided a chance for politicians and business people to meet and discuss regional and bilateral co-operation issues. The president on Tuesday joined a thematic dinner that was attended by some 100 guests and to which Kasyanov was the main speaker. Rozenberga said Vike-Freiberga in Salzburg also met leader of Russian party Yabloko, Grigory Yavlinsky, who underscored the important role of relations between Russia and the Baltic states in Russia's democratisation process as well as in the dialogue of Russia with Nordic states and the rest of Europe. Yavlinsky told the president that accession of the Baltic states, including Latvia, to NATO is the right of sovereign countries to choose security guarantees for the future. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas, Respublika

The Latvian government in general has accepted the model of administrative territorial reform envisaging forming 102 local authorities, which was supported by majority of society. The government though did not express support to any concrete terms for the reform implementation - either 2003 or 2005. Currently Latvia has 552 local authorities and 26 district authorities.

Diena, Jauna, Respublika Draft Law on Citizenship presented to Russian State Duma by President V.Putin does not foresee giving citizenship to the persons residing in the former republics of the USSR and the Baltic Countries only on the basis that the persons were citizens of the former USSR.

Draft Law on Citizenship presented to Russian State Duma by President V.Putin does not foresee giving citizenship to the persons residing in the former republics of the USSR and the Baltic Countries only on the basis that the persons were citizens of the former USSR. Vesti Segodnja

The ruling coalition is ready to give up the agreement with Russia just to cock a snook to non-citizens. Coalition Council of the ruling parties did not support the norm in the agreement foreseeing recalculation of pensions for non-citizens.

The ruling coalition is ready to give up the agreement with Russia just to cock a snook to non-citizens. Coalition Council of the ruling parties did not support the norm in the agreement foreseeing recalculation of pensions for non-citizens. Vesti Segodnja

Russian Government approved federal programme “Russian Language 2002- 2005”, which foresees provision of support to the development of the Russian language in Russia, former Soviet Republics and Baltic States.

Russian Government approved federal programme Russian Language 2002- 2005, which foresees provision of support to the development of the Russian language in Russia, former Soviet Republics and Baltic States. Vesti Segodnja, Respublika

At tomorrow’s extra Saeima’s session the Law on Integration Foundation has to be adopted.

At tomorrows extra Saeimas session the Law on Integration Foundation has to be adopted. Respublika

State Language Centre is going to re-examine Latvian language skills of Daugavpils City mayor R.Eigims. This time State Language Centre director Dz.Hirsha is not sure about Eigims writing skills.

Panorama Latvii

Press Report

Press Report

Even though the ratio of ethnic Latvians in Latvia has been gaining for the past decade, now reaching 57 percent, their numbers continue the 0o dwindle. Latvians are still a minority in 14 of the country's 77 cities and in 45 of the 481 counties. The number of ethnic Russians in Latvia is also on the fall. "This can mainly be explained by a rather large portion of ethnic Russians returning to their ethnic homeland or moving abroad after Latvia regained independence," announced the Latvian statistics office Friday in relation to last year's population census. In the last population census in 1989, Latvia was populated by 52 percent ethnic Latvians and 34 percent ethnic Russians with a population of 2.6 million. This was the lowest ratio of ethnic Latvians recorded in four population censuses since 1935. Of the seven largest Latvian cities, the most ethnic Latvians are found in Ventspils (51.6 percent) and Jelgava (51 percent), while rural areas show a higher rate of Latvians, for example, 91.9 percent in the Talsi district, 91.2 in the Kuldiga district and 89.9 percent in the Ventspils district. The smallest ratio of ethnic Latvians in major cities is found in Daugavpils with 15.9 percent, Rezekne on 42.6 percent and only 41 percent in the capital Riga. Ethnic Latvians are a minority also in Liepaja and Jurmala.

Even though the ratio of ethnic Latvians in Latvia has been gaining for the past decade, now reaching 57 percent, their numbers continue the 0o dwindle. Latvians are still a minority in 14 of the country's 77 cities and in 45 of the 481 counties. The number of ethnic Russians in Latvia is also on the fall. "This can mainly be explained by a rather large portion of ethnic Russians returning to their ethnic homeland or moving abroad after Latvia regained independence," announced the Latvian statistics office Friday in relation to last year's population census. In the last population census in 1989, Latvia was populated by 52 percent ethnic Latvians and 34 percent ethnic Russians with a population of 2.6 million. This was the lowest ratio of ethnic Latvians recorded in four population censuses since 1935. Of the seven largest Latvian cities, the most ethnic Latvians are found in Ventspils (51.6 percent) and Jelgava (51 percent), while rural areas show a higher rate of Latvians, for example, 91.9 percent in the Talsi district, 91.2 in the Kuldiga district and 89.9 percent in the Ventspils district. The smallest ratio of ethnic Latvians in major cities is found in Daugavpils with 15.9 percent, Rezekne on 42.6 percent and only 41 percent in the capital Riga. Ethnic Latvians are a minority also in Liepaja and Jurmala. Diena, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja

Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will be participating in the Salzburg Economic Forum in Austria from July 1 - 3. The forum's main topic this year is EU expansion and future development perspectives.

Latvia's President Vaira Vike-Freiberga will be participating in the Salzburg Economic Forum in Austria from July 1 - 3. The forum's main topic this year is EU expansion and future development perspectives. Diena

A part of people who left Russian Party are planning to establish a new organisation for Russians in Latvia – the new political movement will be called “Latvia – Our Home”. At the moment the main principles of the movement are very similar to the programme of FHRUL.

A part of people who left Russian Party are planning to establish a new organisation for Russians in Latvia – the new political movement will be called Latvia – Our Home. At the moment the main principles of the movement are very similar to the programme of FHRUL. Panorama Latvii, Vesti Segodnja

The heads of National Human Rights Office and State Police admitted that the lack of interpreters in police is violation of human rights as legal proceedings takes place only in the state language.

The heads of National Human Rights Office and State Police admitted that the lack of interpreters in police is violation of human rights as legal proceedings takes place only in the state language. Vesti Segodnja

Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov said in a newspaper interview that to ensure the rights of ethnic minorities, Estonia and Latvia must more observe norms effective in the European Union. "We demand no special conditions for our compatriots, different from those that ethnic minorities enjoy in other European countries," Ivanov told the Russian daily

Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov said in a newspaper interview that to ensure the rights of ethnic minorities, Estonia and Latvia must more observe norms effective in the European Union. "We demand no special conditions for our compatriots, different from those that ethnic minorities enjoy in other European countries," Ivanov told the Russian daily Pravda. "We are convinced Estonia and Latvia, aspiring to become members of the European Union, have to stick to EU norms." The Russian foreign minister said observation of minority rights would contribute to the Baltic countries' good relations with Russia, as Russia pays a lot of attention to humanitarian issues in those countries. "We cannot regard as normal a situation where one third of a country's residents have no citizenship, where their rights to education in their native language are being restricted, where they are being crowded into the back yard of public and political life," Ivanov said. Vesti Segodnja, BNS

Latvian prosecutor general ordered Constitution Protection Office (CPO), top national security agency, to check out if a book of essays from controversial contest, published by Vieda publishing company, contains inciting to national hatred for the second time. The book contains essays sent in to the publishing company as part of the essay contest, criticised by Russia. CPO deputy chief Uldis Dzenitis told BNS the CPO received order from Prosecutor General Janis Maizitis several days ago and, it is Maizitis' own initiative. He asked to assess if the publication of the book should not be regarded as inciting to national or racial hatred.

Vesti Segodnja

Vesti Segodnja

provides comments on the visit of Riga City Council mayor G.Bojars to Moscow. The real purpose of the visit was not the one announced officially – to present Rigas 800 years anniversary – but to present Social Democrats as the future ruling party, with which Moscow will have to build relationship. provides comments on the visit of Riga City Council mayor G.Bojars to Moscow. The real purpose of the visit was not the one announced officially – to present Riga’s 800 years anniversary – but “to present Social Democrats as the future ruling party, with which Moscow will have to build relationship”.