Press Report

Press Report

Before leaving for Moscow, Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars said that he will not be discussing cooperation, however, meeting Moscow Council Chairman Vladimir Platonov, the two agreed upon signing a cooperation protocol. Bojars met Platonov on Thursday and agreed to sign a cooperation protocol between Riga and Moscow in the near future, reported the Riga City Council. The cooperation protocol project is to be developed in the coming weeks.

Before leaving for Moscow, Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars said that he will not be discussing cooperation, however, meeting Moscow Council Chairman Vladimir Platonov, the two agreed upon signing a cooperation protocol. Bojars met Platonov on Thursday and agreed to sign a cooperation protocol between Riga and Moscow in the near future, reported the Riga City Council. The cooperation protocol project is to be developed in the coming weeks. BNS

Eight percent of the Russian population believes that Latvia is Russia's largest enemy, according to a poll published Thursday. The ROMIR poll asked people to name the countries they believe to be Russia's largest enemies and those countries believed to be their largest allies.

Eight percent of the Russian population believes that Latvia is Russia's largest enemy, according to a poll published Thursday. The ROMIR poll asked people to name the countries they believe to be Russia's largest enemies and those countries believed to be their largest allies. BNS

The mayor of western Latvian city Liepaja has asked the Lithuanian Border Guard to expedite border crossing between the two countries this summer when several culture and sports events in Liepaja are expected to draw large number of tourists. This summer several culture and sports events are planned in Liepaja likely to draw large number of Lithuanian visitors, therefore Liepaja mayor Uldis Sesks asked the Lithuanian Border Guard to find ways to expedite border crossing at Rucava checkpoint on the Latvian-Lithuanian border, reported a spokesman for the Liepaja City Council.

The mayor of western Latvian city Liepaja has asked the Lithuanian Border Guard to expedite border crossing between the two countries this summer when several culture and sports events in Liepaja are expected to draw large number of tourists. This summer several culture and sports events are planned in Liepaja likely to draw large number of Lithuanian visitors, therefore Liepaja mayor Uldis Sesks asked the Lithuanian Border Guard to find ways to expedite border crossing at Rucava checkpoint on the Latvian-Lithuanian border, reported a spokesman for the Liepaja City Council. BNS

The Europarliament committee delegation on visit to Latvia was pleasantly surprised over Latvia's progress and said the Baltic state has a good chance to be admitted to the European Union (EU) in the first enlargement wave, said the committee chairman. Elmar Brok, who chairs the Europarliament committee for foreign affairs, human rights, common security and defense, made this statement at a news conference in Riga on Friday.

The Europarliament committee delegation on visit to Latvia was pleasantly surprised over Latvia's progress and said the Baltic state has a good chance to be admitted to the European Union (EU) in the first enlargement wave, said the committee chairman. Elmar Brok, who chairs the Europarliament committee for foreign affairs, human rights, common security and defense, made this statement at a news conference in Riga on Friday. BNS

At their last spring session Saeima deputies adopted in the second reading the draft law “On Public Integration”. They are ready to adopt this law also in the final reading already this summer at one of the extraordinary sessions. The law is necessary to implement the Public Integration Program. The government will establish Public Integration Fund let by attracting foreign financing to further public integration in Latvia.

At their last spring session Saeima deputies adopted in the second reading the draft law On Public Integration. They are ready to adopt this law also in the final reading already this summer at one of the extraordinary sessions. The law is necessary to implement the Public Integration Program. The government will establish Public Integration Fund let by attracting foreign financing to further public integration in Latvia. Diena

The new improved machine-readable Latvian passports that were meant to use as travel documents will not be issued from July but only from September 1. Although the system testing with sample passports and training of employees will start next week DCMA upon a proposal of MFA will start issuing these passports only when they will be recognized by other states. Legalization of passports is mandatory before introducing new travel documents and lasts for about two months.

The new improved machine-readable Latvian passports that were meant to use as travel documents will not be issued from July but only from September 1. Although the system testing with sample passports and training of employees will start next week DCMA upon a proposal of MFA will start issuing these passports only when they will be recognized by other states. Legalization of passports is mandatory before introducing new travel documents and lasts for about two months. Diena

Latvian President V.Vike Freiberga while addressing MPs at their last spring session stressed the importance of internal security of Latvian on its way to NATO and EU. She was positive about her co-operation with the Saeima, and deputies praised the President for her achievements in foreign policy and urged her to be more active in using her legislative initiative.

Latvian President V.Vike Freiberga while addressing MPs at their last spring session stressed the importance of internal security of Latvian on its way to NATO and EU. She was positive about her co-operation with the Saeima, and deputies praised the President for her achievements in foreign policy and urged her to be more active in using her legislative initiative. Neatkariga, Latvijas Vestnesis

Speaking about a possibility of a new party to be created V.Vike Freiberga abstained from making any forecasts. It is not possible to evaluate a nonexistent party before it has started to act. Nevertheless she thought that the idea to unite right wing forces had a good chance.

Speaking about a possibility of a new party to be created V.Vike Freiberga abstained from making any forecasts. It is not possible to evaluate a nonexistent party before it has started to act. Nevertheless she thought that the idea to unite right wing forces had a good chance. Respublika

Catalonia President Georgi Puzol arrived to Latvia to study its experience in public integration. While meeting with our officials he told them about the situation concerning language and integration. He also praised Latvia’s achievements and supported its attempts to join EU.

Catalonia President Georgi Puzol arrived to Latvia to study its experience in public integration. While meeting with our officials he told them about the situation concerning language and integration. He also praised Latvias achievements and supported its attempts to join EU. Neatkariga, Latvijas Vestnesis

MFA press center published an announcement where they withdraw the application made in 1995 to candidate for the election of UN impermanent member in 2005 and postponed running for UN Security Council for some later time. It was done taking into consideration the intensive negotiations for joining EU and NATO and MFA considered it more important to concentrate its efforts on achieving these two goals.

MFA press center published an announcement where they withdraw the application made in 1995 to candidate for the election of UN impermanent member in 2005 and postponed running for UN Security Council for some later time. It was done taking into consideration the intensive negotiations for joining EU and NATO and MFA considered it more important to concentrate its efforts on achieving these two goals. Latvijas Vestnesis

Panorama Latvia

writes that within one week Latvian MFA expressed their incomprehension on the announcement of Russian President V.Putin about the situation of Russian speakers in Latvia. Putin had not had adequate information. But the paradox is that almost simultaneously with this also Latvian President spoke about the necessity to solve the problem of non-citizens. Latvian President in an interview to writes that within one week Latvian MFA expressed their incomprehension on the announcement of Russian President V.Putin about the situation of Russian speakers in Latvia. Putin had not had adequate information. But the paradox is that almost simultaneously with this also Latvian President spoke about the necessity to solve the problem of non-citizens. Latvian President in an interview to Lauku AvizeLauku Avize stated that percentage of non-citizens in Latvian was higher than in any other European country and steps should be taken to normalize the situation. Answering to the statements of Lauku Avize journalists that many demobilized Soviet military personnel had settled in Riga and that other countries did not understand the situation here, President answered we also do not understand the world. stated that percentage of non-citizens in Latvian was higher than in any other European country and steps should be taken to normalize the situation. Answering to the statements of Lauku Avize journalists that many demobilized Soviet military personnel had settled in Riga and that other countries did not understand the situation here, President answered “we also do not understand the world’. Yesterday Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov was present at the graduation party of the Baltic Russian Institute.

Yesterday Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov was present at the graduation party of the Baltic Russian Institute. Vesti Segodnya

Press Report

Press Report

Meetings of Riga city council delegation with Moscow City government officials Wednesday in Moscow exceeded, in terms of favourable attitude and readiness to co-operate, all expectations by the Latvian delegation, Riga mayor said. Remark by Gundars Bojars came following a lunch in the Moscow City government and meetings with a number of Moscow City government officials.

Meetings of Riga city council delegation with Moscow City government officials Wednesday in Moscow exceeded, in terms of favourable attitude and readiness to co-operate, all expectations by the Latvian delegation, Riga mayor said. Remark by Gundars Bojars came following a lunch in the Moscow City government and meetings with a number of Moscow City government officials. BNS

Latvian security structures Wednesday in Grebneva border checkpoint handed over to Russian border guard three National Bolsheviks from Russia who had crossed over into Latvia illegally and convicted for it. All three youths crossed the border at 4:10 p.m., eyewitnesses to the procedure reported to

Latvian security structures Wednesday in Grebneva border checkpoint handed over to Russian border guard three National Bolsheviks from Russia who had crossed over into Latvia illegally and convicted for it. All three youths crossed the border at 4:10 p.m., eyewitnesses to the procedure reported to BNS.

Latvian foreign minister Thursday will depart for a brief working visit in Denmark, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman told reporters. In Denmark Indulis Berzins is scheduled to meet Danish Foreign Minister Mogens Lykketof, Baltic development forum chairman as well as Danish parliament European affairs committee chairman.

Latvian foreign minister Thursday will depart for a brief working visit in Denmark, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman told reporters. In Denmark Indulis Berzins is scheduled to meet Danish Foreign Minister Mogens Lykketof, Baltic development forum chairman as well as Danish parliament European affairs committee chairman. BNS

In an interview to the Austrian newspaper Die Presse Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga said that Russian President V.Putin criticising Latvia wanted to construct obstacles on its way to NATO. Latvian – Russian relations would improve with the time when Latvia joins NATO.

In an interview to the Austrian newspaper Die Presse Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga said that Russian President V.Putin criticising Latvia wanted to construct obstacles on its way to NATO. Latvian – Russian relations would improve with the time when Latvia joins NATO. Neatkariga

Newspaper

Newspaper Lauku Avize published a letter of Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre Director N.Muiznieks where he explained misrepresentation of his statements in the Russian speaking newspaper Vesti Segodnya. N.Muiznieks gave his interview in the Latvian language and misinterpretation happened while translating it into Russian. Editor of Lauku Avize J.Krustins writes that it was not an accident but an intentional and impudent misrepresentation let with the mouth of a political scientist of Latvian nationality, trained in the USA, to herald to Russian speakers that the Russians are discriminated in Latvia as a nation and also with the help of the language. Mr. Krustins writes that it will serve a good lesson to N.Muiznieks in his relations with certain newspapers.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that in parliamentary democracies there are no guarantees a government would live on through the next general elections but all depends on politicians. "I don't see any signs that would pose threat to this government but all is in the hands of politicians whether they are able to agree," the president told reporters Thursday following her address to the parliament.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga believes that in parliamentary democracies there are no guarantees a government would live on through the next general elections but all depends on politicians. "I don't see any signs that would pose threat to this government but all is in the hands of politicians whether they are able to agree," the president told reporters Thursday following her address to the parliament. BNS

Russia will become the Chairman of CBSS, and it Prime Minister M.Kasyanov announced that within the framework of this organisation had been established the following major directions for co-operation – co-operation in development of Kaliningrad Region, development of regional infrastructure of the Baltic Region, co-operation in environment protection.

Russia will become the Chairman of CBSS, and it Prime Minister M.Kasyanov announced that within the framework of this organisation had been established the following major directions for co-operation – co-operation in development of Kaliningrad Region, development of regional infrastructure of the Baltic Region, co-operation in environment protection. Lauku Avize

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga Thursday in address to the parliament underscored role of internal security in successful movement of Latvia to the European Union and NATO. "Internal security of the country means capability to fight against corruption and organised crime so people are not cynically murdered in the light of day and the state treasury gets all the money it currently is short of," the President said.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga Thursday in address to the parliament underscored role of internal security in successful movement of Latvia to the European Union and NATO. "Internal security of the country means capability to fight against corruption and organised crime so people are not cynically murdered in the light of day and the state treasury gets all the money it currently is short of," the President said. BNS

Vesti Segodnya

published an article about the President of Latvia V.Vike-Freiberga and her two years term in the office. The President has been very active and independent, the qualities some of the ruling politicians do not like. And just recently, after a series of scandals she had realised that it was not wise to put ="" between Russia and USSR. It seems that the President wants to start relations with Russia from tabula rasa – forgetting former offences and prejudices. Without much advertising Consultative Council on National Minority Education Affairs was established at the Ministry of Education and Science. It seems that the state finally expressed a wish to consult with non-Latvians. The Council was established in February and so far had had two sittings that did not create any humanitarian overturn but at least there appeared a place where you might speak in favour of national minority education. And some people did. I.Pimenov, Chairman of Association of Russian Speaking Schools in Latvia, handed for consideration at the Council a draft alternative program for schools with the Russian language of tuition but T.Favorskaya – a draft on Russian national school. But these people once more ascertained that the law on education was solid. It is planned that from 2004 tuition in schools will be transferred to the Latvian language. And authorities do not yield to their letters, protests and pickets.

Without much advertising Consultative Council on National Minority Education Affairs was established at the Ministry of Education and Science. It seems that the state finally expressed a wish to consult with non-Latvians. The Council was established in February and so far had had two sittings that did not create any humanitarian overturn but at least there appeared a place where you might speak in favour of national minority education. And some people did. I.Pimenov, Chairman of Association of Russian Speaking Schools in Latvia, handed for consideration at the Council a draft alternative program for schools with the Russian language of tuition but T.Favorskaya – a draft on Russian national school. But these people once more ascertained that the law on education was solid. It is planned that from 2004 tuition in schools will be transferred to the Latvian language. And authorities do not yield to their letters, protests and pickets. Vesti Segodnya

Press Report

Press Report

Latvian Parliament Speaker Janis Straume and Portuguese Foreign Minister Jaime Jose Matos de Gama discussed Latvian and Portuguese bilateral relations and Latvia's movement to the European Union. The officials agreed that between the two countries has developed good co-operation, the parliament press office reported.

Latvian Parliament Speaker Janis Straume and Portuguese Foreign Minister Jaime Jose Matos de Gama discussed Latvian and Portuguese bilateral relations and Latvia's movement to the European Union. The officials agreed that between the two countries has developed good co-operation, the parliament press office reported. BNS, Panorama Latvii

The Latvian capital city mayor will Wednesday leave for Moscow at the invitation of his Russian counterpart and is also expected to meet with the Russian State Duma chairman during this visit. Riga City mayor Gundars Bojars told BNS he would make the two-day visit at the invitation of Moscow mayor, Jury Luzhkov, to present festivities marking Riga's 800th anniversary and expected to culminate in August.

The Latvian capital city mayor will Wednesday leave for Moscow at the invitation of his Russian counterpart and is also expected to meet with the Russian State Duma chairman during this visit. Riga City mayor Gundars Bojars told BNS he would make the two-day visit at the invitation of Moscow mayor, Jury Luzhkov, to present festivities marking Riga's 800th anniversary and expected to culminate in August. BNS, Vesti Segodnya, Diena, Neatkariga

A local level soldiers representative or Ombudsman shall be selected by June 20 in all units of National Armed Forces. It is stated in a decree of the Commander in Chief. In the NAF Commander’s Office has been established a position for supervising this institution, and Mayor M.Liberts is selected for this post.

A local level soldiers representative or Ombudsman shall be selected by June 20 in all units of National Armed Forces. It is stated in a decree of the Commander in Chief. In the NAF Commanders Office has been established a position for supervising this institution, and Mayor M.Liberts is selected for this post. Diena

Constitution of Latvia Satversme will celebrate its 80th anniversary but lately there is more and more discussion about the fact that it does not reflect fully the classical principles of division of power, especially analysing the legal status of the State President and pointing out that Latvia needs a popularly elected President. Dr. iur. J.Lazdins writes about this situation and states that so far nobody has found out what kind of President people want – elected by the Saeima or popularly.

Constitution of Latvia Satversme will celebrate its 80th anniversary but lately there is more and more discussion about the fact that it does not reflect fully the classical principles of division of power, especially analysing the legal status of the State President and pointing out that Latvia needs a popularly elected President. Dr. iur. J.Lazdins writes about this situation and states that so far nobody has found out what kind of President people want – elected by the Saeima or popularly. Neatkariga

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga Tuesday met Austrian government's commissioner for the European Union enlargement issues to discuss the need to launch a broad campaign to inform public about the current and future EU member countries, president's press office reported. The officials also discussed the situation in the Balkans and the Baltic Sea region. Speaking about Cupertino between the Baltic Sea countries the president noted that Latvia is interested in closer Cupertino with Russia's Europe region, including Kaliningrad region.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga Tuesday met Austrian government's commissioner for the European Union enlargement issues to discuss the need to launch a broad campaign to inform public about the current and future EU member countries, president's press office reported. The officials also discussed the situation in the Balkans and the Baltic Sea region. Speaking about Cupertino between the Baltic Sea countries the president noted that Latvia is interested in closer Cupertino with Russia's Europe region, including Kaliningrad region. BNS

Newspaper

Newspaper Jauna Avize found very strange the governments position when it did not allow the Human Rights Office move to the building of the Constitutional Court. So far Human Rights Office spent 51% of its yearly budget for rent (paying 7.12 Ls for mË›). But in the Court building they would have to pay 1.5 Ls for mË›. As these rooms needed renovation, Office Director O.Bruveris asked for 75 276 Ls. Human Rights Office informed the government about their wish at the beginning of this year, and the Chairman of the Constitutional Court A.Endzins also would be glad to have such neighbours. Ministers rejected this request stating that they did not have resources for the renovation.

Yesterday the Cabinet of Ministers decided that 9th graders of Russian speaking schools would be able to receive a language certification basing on the results of their graduation exams. There is a hope that also graduates of secondary schools of this year could get this certification. It is up to the Ministry of Education and Science to decide. Newspaper

Yesterday the Cabinet of Ministers decided that 9th graders of Russian speaking schools would be able to receive a language certification basing on the results of their graduation exams. There is a hope that also graduates of secondary schools of this year could get this certification. It is up to the Ministry of Education and Science to decide. Newspaper Chas comments this news saying that it came like a shock for 9th graders because different from previous years new regulations stipulate to issue certificates to students basing only on the results of centralised exams or starting from School year 2003/2004 (highest category 2b) the Ministry of Education and Science proposed to amend the regulations allowing the present 9th graders to receive the Latvian language proficiency certificates. Yesterday the government adopted these amendments but the exam took place a week ago. Now the question is whether the law will have a retroactive effect. Chas, Panorama Latvii

A journalist for the newspaper

A journalist for the newspaper Vesti Segodnya visited the Deputy mayor of Riga City Council S.Dolgopolov and saw that Mr. Dolgopolov was having frequent telephone conversations with the State Language Centre officials. And the catalyst for these conversations was an unofficial press conference for journalists of Russian speaking press organised by Committee Head S.Zaletajev. It was held in the Russian language upon a mutual agreement. Representative of Peoples Party Krastins sent a letter to the State Language Centre stating that some deputies did not have the necessary state language knowledge thus triggering all this process.

The number of non-citizens having submitted in May 2001 an application for naturalisation decreased to 569. According to the statistical data of the Naturalisation Board it is the smallest number since October 1998. And one more interesting figure - last month 18% of all non-citizens who took the state language test failed while during the whole 2000 this figure was 13%.

The number of non-citizens having submitted in May 2001 an application for naturalisation decreased to 569. According to the statistical data of the Naturalisation Board it is the smallest number since October 1998. And one more interesting figure - last month 18% of all non-citizens who took the state language test failed while during the whole 2000 this figure was 13%. Vesti Segodnya

 Press Report

Press Report

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, currently on visit to Austria, met with Simon

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, currently on visit to Austria, met with Simon

Wiesenthal, the man after whom a Nazi-hunting centre has been named. At the talks with the 92-year-old man Monday the Latvian president told Wiesenthal that a Latvian-language edition of his book, The Sunflower, has been published in Latvia recently. The Sunflower is the first book by Wiesenthal translated into the Latvian.

Wiesenthal, the man after whom a Nazi-hunting centre has been named. At the talks with the 92-year-old man Monday the Latvian president told Wiesenthal that a Latvian-language edition of his book, The Sunflower, has been published in Latvia recently. The Sunflower is the first book by Wiesenthal translated into the Latvian. BNS, Jauna Avize, Neatkariga

Europarliament foreign, human rights, common security and defence committee will soon visit Latvia for the first time. The Europarliament committee will make a get-acquainted visit to Latvia from June 20 to 22, said a spokeswoman for the Latvian parliament's EU Information Center. During this visit Europarliament delegates will examine Latvia's integration in the European Union (EU) and NATO.

Europarliament foreign, human rights, common security and defence committee will soon visit Latvia for the first time. The Europarliament committee will make a get-acquainted visit to Latvia from June 20 to 22, said a spokeswoman for the Latvian parliament's EU Information Center. During this visit Europarliament delegates will examine Latvia's integration in the European Union (EU) and NATO. BNS

The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed surprise over the claims made by Russian President Putin on violations of human rights in Latvia during his meeting with US President Bush. The Latvian Foreign Ministry believes that Putin may not have been informed well enough of the situation in Latvia. Russian President Vladimir Putin met US President George W Bush in Slovenia on Saturday and while discussing the situation in the Balkans, Putin criticised the non-citizen situation in the Baltics, mentioning Latvia as an example. "In Latvia, for example, 40 percent Russian speaking population, an enormous number of non-citizens have not managed to get citizenship until this day,' said Putin. "But we do not send weapons there, we do not support or expand on terrorism there, we do not encourage people to solve issues of national identity and religious identity with the help of weapons."

The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed surprise over the claims made by Russian President Putin on violations of human rights in Latvia during his meeting with US President Bush. The Latvian Foreign Ministry believes that Putin may not have been informed well enough of the situation in Latvia. Russian President Vladimir Putin met US President George W Bush in Slovenia on Saturday and while discussing the situation in the Balkans, Putin criticised the non-citizen situation in the Baltics, mentioning Latvia as an example. "In Latvia, for example, 40 percent Russian speaking population, an enormous number of non-citizens have not managed to get citizenship until this day,' said Putin. "But we do not send weapons there, we do not support or expand on terrorism there, we do not encourage people to solve issues of national identity and religious identity with the help of weapons." BNS, Neatkariga

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga upon meeting the Austrian National Council president Heinz Fischer spoke of mutual co-operation, as well as of a united Europe and the current discussions on the theme. The President's office reported that during their meeting Fischer has said that the referendum in Ireland on EU expansion is a signal showing the need for tighter negotiations with member state societies on what EU expansion expects, and also points to the need for more information on candidate countries.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga upon meeting the Austrian National Council president Heinz Fischer spoke of mutual co-operation, as well as of a united Europe and the current discussions on the theme. The President's office reported that during their meeting Fischer has said that the referendum in Ireland on EU expansion is a signal showing the need for tighter negotiations with member state societies on what EU expansion expects, and also points to the need for more information on candidate countries. BNS, Latvijas Vestnesis

Newspaper

Newspaper Latvijas Vestnesis published Expert Review Mission on Latvian Human Rights Office and Ombudsman Functions in Latvia.

A.Krieva, student of Riga Graduate School of Law continues the discussion on national minorities in Latvia. She analyses the definition of a national minority given by the Framework Convention on National Minorities, compares it with other definitions, also the one given by the OSCE High Commissioner Max van der Stoel “I recognise a national minority when I see one.

A.Krieva, student of Riga Graduate School of Law continues the discussion on national minorities in Latvia. She analyses the definition of a national minority given by the Framework Convention on National Minorities, compares it with other definitions, also the one given by the OSCE High Commissioner Max van der Stoel I recognise a national minority when I see one. Latvijas Vestnesis

Lauku Avize

interviewed some MPs about the spread rumours on a possibility to establish a new political party under leadership of such prominent persons as former Latvian president G.Ulmanis, former Riga mayor A.Argalis and Z.Cevers. M.Grinblats (FF/LNNK) thinks that no real action is taking place, A.Skele (Peoples Party) said that he had not heard Mr.Ulmanis promising to organise a new party, and he did not see any serious politicians ready to join this party. K.Leiskals (Latvian Way) would not wonder if a new party was established. interviewed some MPs about the spread rumours on a possibility to establish a new political party under leadership of such prominent persons as former Latvian president G.Ulmanis, former Riga mayor A.Argalis and Z.Cevers. M.Grinblats (FF/LNNK) thinks that no real action is taking place, A.Skele (People’s Party) said that he had not heard Mr.Ulmanis promising to organise a new party, and he did not see any serious politicians ready to join this party. K.Leiskals (Latvian Way) would not wonder if a new party was established. Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks visited the newspaper

Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Center Director N.Muiznieks visited the newspaper Lauku Avize and explained his statements about national minority discrimination in Latvia published by the Russian speaking newspaper Vesti Segodnya. He said that Vesti Segodnya had misinterpreted his words about the situation in Latvia. N.Muiznieks based his statements on the sociological research where 24% of population said that they were discriminated, both Latvians and Russians. And among Russians in Latvia is very explicit stratification – they are the poorest and richest. And Muizniekss task was not to accuse anybody neither the government nor Latvians, but to pay attention to this fact.

So far being busy with arranging political affairs at the Riga City Council, leaders of FF/LNNK remembered that they had a special mission and ideology that distinguished them among other parties. M.Grinblats asked party members not to forget it and not to move to the sector belonging to other parties. He acknowledged that manoeuvring after the local government election of March 11 had taken too long thus indirectly pointing to the fact that party members should not get involved in close co-operation with Social Democrats in Riga City Council.

So far being busy with arranging political affairs at the Riga City Council, leaders of FF/LNNK remembered that they had a special mission and ideology that distinguished them among other parties. M.Grinblats asked party members not to forget it and not to move to the sector belonging to other parties. He acknowledged that manoeuvring after the local government election of March 11 had taken too long thus indirectly pointing to the fact that party members should not get involved in close co-operation with Social Democrats in Riga City Council. Lauku Avize

MP I.Udre from New Party in her interview to the newspaper Vesti Segodnya stated that deputies had turned into marionettes, nobody paid attention to the opposition’s opinions and all most important decisions were taken by a small group of persons naming themselves “coalition council”. In reality the parliament has lost any meaning.

MP I.Udre from New Party in her interview to the newspaper Vesti Segodnya stated that deputies had turned into marionettes, nobody paid attention to the oppositions opinions and all most important decisions were taken by a small group of persons naming themselves coalition council. In reality the parliament has lost any meaning. Vesti Segodnya

A few days ago Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga read the compositions of Russian speaking students sent to the newspaper Chas for the competition “Why I love Latvia and consider it to be my Fatherland”. The President was of a high opinion about this initiative of

A few days ago Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga read the compositions of Russian speaking students sent to the newspaper Chas for the competition Why I love Latvia and consider it to be my Fatherland. The President was of a high opinion about this initiative of Chas and pointed out that it was not in interests of Latvia to have two separated communities, two information areas. Chas

Press Report

One of the leading FF/LNNK politicians R.Zile considers that it is not possible to form a new party in Latvia if no political party is interested in it. On Saturday’s party council meeting he said that the most interested political force to support such a process before the election of the 8th Saeima could be People’s Party which otherwise risked to stay outside the ruling coalition failing to find new allies.

One of the leading FF/LNNK politicians R.Zile considers that it is not possible to form a new party in Latvia if no political party is interested in it. On Saturdays party council meeting he said that the most interested political force to support such a process before the election of the 8th Saeima could be Peoples Party which otherwise risked to stay outside the ruling coalition failing to find new allies. Diena

FF/LNNK Liepaja Section organised two actions to attract public attention to the still existing consequences of Soviet occupation. The first action was a picket at the Russian Consulate General in Liepaja and the second was at the Monument to Defenders of Liepaja where members of Socialist Party Liepaja Section usually gather.

FF/LNNK Liepaja Section organised two actions to attract public attention to the still existing consequences of Soviet occupation. The first action was a picket at the Russian Consulate General in Liepaja and the second was at the Monument to Defenders of Liepaja where members of Socialist Party Liepaja Section usually gather. Neatkariga, Chas, Respublika

The largest program of the Soros Foundation in Latvia “Changes in education” is working for seven years utilising about 1.5 million USD per year. During the last 3 months 300 000 USD have been spent to assists Russian schools. Director of the Program G.Catlaks is sure that abolishing of Russian education in Latvia is not possible in principle unless Russians themselves do not want it. Three years ago the project “Open School” was started and were selected 37 schools and 25 kindergartens with bilingual education and an unofficial university created for them. People from these institutions come together for seminars on bilingual education, run by foreign experts, and select useful information and do homework during sessions.

The largest program of the Soros Foundation in Latvia Changes in education is working for seven years utilising about 1.5 million USD per year. During the last 3 months 300 000 USD have been spent to assists Russian schools. Director of the Program G.Catlaks is sure that abolishing of Russian education in Latvia is not possible in principle unless Russians themselves do not want it. Three years ago the project Open School was started and were selected 37 schools and 25 kindergartens with bilingual education and an unofficial university created for them. People from these institutions come together for seminars on bilingual education, run by foreign experts, and select useful information and do homework during sessions. Rigas Balss (Russian version)

A.Stroy from the newspaper

A.Stroy from the newspaper Chas interviewed the US Ambassador to Latvia J.Holmes about his open letter to this newspaper where he wrote about the situation of Russian speaking population in Latvia and interest of these people in EU problems. He would like to start a public dialog on what Russian speakers are afraid of concerning Latvias joining NATO, is there any danger to the interests of Russia if Latvia joins this organisation, is lingering with signing Latvian – Russian border agreement in interests of this part of population. The stimulus for Ambassadors letter was the Victory concert organised with the support of Russian Embassy. Answering to the question about the problems with WW II veterans in Latvia J.Holmes said that everybody who fought against Fascism should be honoured for this servicing, but he could not accept that Russian government and major part of Russian population held the opinion that service in the Soviet Army automatically took off responsibility for any criminal action. American government considers that Latvia had to trial Kononov and Farbtuh for their criminal offences during WW II. Speaking about public integration in Latvia the Ambassador said that Latvia should approach this process very creatively by trying to find new methods to encourage people. And American government participates in many projects together with such international organisations as OSCE, CoE, EU, and UNDP to further this process in Latvia.

Russian Community in Latvia published an announcement in the newspaper

Russian Community in Latvia published an announcement in the newspaper Vesti Segodnya concerning the fact of vandalism having taken place on the Soviet built Victory Monument. They state that this time was very vividly demonstrated unbreakable unity of Nationalism and Fascism. And it is no surprise when you see groups of drunken youngsters walking along the streets of Riga in front of policemen shouting Hail; selling Nazi symbols in antique shops. These people feel safe and get ready for Riga 800 festivity to demonstrate visitors their opinion. So Russian Community in Latvia warns that the collapse of Russian spirit is over and it is dangerous to test patience of Russian people.

Official representative of Russian MFA A.Jakovlenko was positive when speaking about the latest step of the Latvian government aimed to ease the procedure of naturalisation – reduce the naturalisation fee.

Official representative of Russian MFA A.Jakovlenko was positive when speaking about the latest step of the Latvian government aimed to ease the procedure of naturalisation – reduce the naturalisation fee. Vesti Segodnya

Newspaper

Newspaper Vesti Segodnya interviewed V.Sokolov the leader of the Union of citizens and non-citizens about the process if integration. V.Sokolov stated that the assumption that integration would be the final solution of Russian problem was wrong and a dangerous illusion. He pointed out that non-citizens still did not have any influence on political processes in Latvia because of no right of vote. Of course, there is some co-operation – Non-citizen Council in Venspils, similar institutions created in Rezekne and Daugavpils. But nothing like that is happening in Riga where the majority of Latvian aliens reside. Already in last November the Union sent an official letter to Riga City Council asking all deputies to express their opinion on a possibility to establish such a council. There was no response.

The Belarus Foreign Ministry has summoned its ambassador to Latvia, Mihail Marinich, in relation to his candidacy for the Belarus presidential elections, reported the Belarus Foreign Ministry on Monday. Ambassador Marinich, who recently applied for becoming a candidate in the coming Belarus presidential elections, was invited to a meeting with Belarus Foreign Minister Mihail Hostov on June 15, were he was informed of the decision. The Belarus embassy advisor, Vladimir Gromiko, has for now been appointed Ambassador in charge in Latvia.

The Belarus Foreign Ministry has summoned its ambassador to Latvia, Mihail Marinich, in relation to his candidacy for the Belarus presidential elections, reported the Belarus Foreign Ministry on Monday. Ambassador Marinich, who recently applied for becoming a candidate in the coming Belarus presidential elections, was invited to a meeting with Belarus Foreign Minister Mihail Hostov on June 15, were he was informed of the decision. The Belarus embassy advisor, Vladimir Gromiko, has for now been appointed Ambassador in charge in Latvia. BNS

Russian President V.Putin in the final press conference in Lublin reminded about the violations of rights of Russian speaking population in Latvia. Journalist A.Riskin thinks that it was Russia’s “homework” because Russia would never agree to Latvia joining NATO but the USA never listens to Russian opinion on this subject.

Russian President V.Putin in the final press conference in Lublin reminded about the violations of rights of Russian speaking population in Latvia. Journalist A.Riskin thinks that it was Russias homework because Russia would never agree to Latvia joining NATO but the USA never listens to Russian opinion on this subject. Panorama Latvii