Press Report

On June 9 –10 in Jurmala will take place and international conference “Preservation and development of Latvian, Russian and Byelorussian economical ties within the context of integration processes of the Baltic States and Russia – Byelorussia”. It will be the forth conference of the Baltic Forum.

On June 9 –10 in Jurmala will take place and international conference Preservation and development of Latvian, Russian and Byelorussian economical ties within the context of integration processes of the Baltic States and Russia – Byelorussia. It will be the forth conference of the Baltic Forum. Neatkariga

Latvian Ambassador to Moscow soon will leave his post and will be posted in London as Latvian Ambassador to GB. Most likely he will be replaced by the present Latvian Ambassador to GB N.Penke.

Latvian Ambassador to Moscow soon will leave his post and will be posted in London as Latvian Ambassador to GB. Most likely he will be replaced by the present Latvian Ambassador to GB N.Penke.

Participants of the conference "Establishment of Ombudsmanship in Latvia" expressed an opinion that the role of Ombudsman might be appraised only by a socially and politically active society. Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga said that when reading thousands of letters from residents of Latvia one had to make a conclusion that protection of the rights of residents off Latvia demanded a special attention. Ombudsman would be an effective instrument also in the hands of the Saeima but it should not be a politicized post. Former Head of Latvian Human Rights office O.Bruveris said that politicians had to take a decision on the necessity of Ombudsman in Latvia. So far about the necessity of such an institution is discussed only theoretically and no practical action to establish such a thing had been taken.

Participants of the conference "Establishment of Ombudsmanship in Latvia" expressed an opinion that the role of Ombudsman might be appraised only by a socially and politically active society. Latvian President V.Vike-Freiberga said that when reading thousands of letters from residents of Latvia one had to make a conclusion that protection of the rights of residents off Latvia demanded a special attention. Ombudsman would be an effective instrument also in the hands of the Saeima but it should not be a politicized post. Former Head of Latvian Human Rights office O.Bruveris said that politicians had to take a decision on the necessity of Ombudsman in Latvia. So far about the necessity of such an institution is discussed only theoretically and no practical action to establish such a thing had been taken. Neatkariga

Writing about the conference "Establishment of Ombudsmanship in Latvia" and the institution of Ombudsman as such Z.Katc in

Writing about the conference "Establishment of Ombudsmanship in Latvia" and the institution of Ombudsman as such Z.Katc in Respublika says that at first people have to ask questions – what will be the authorities of the Head of Ombudsman and his office. Will they be wider that the ones of Human Rights Office? Will a new institution be created? At the same time the Parliament did not ratify the Framework Convention on National minorities. And will be implemented another CoE recommendation – to ratify European Social Chart?

Russian speaking newspaper

Russian speaking newspaper Vesti Segodnya states that the Baltic Assembly has turned into a political tourism for wandering parliamentarians who like official dinners and demarches and asks whether it is not the right time to close this banquet.

18% of Latvian citizens and every second non-citizen support the idea to join the CIS. These data were collected during the opinion poll within the program “On the Way to a Civic Society”. Most of citizens who support this idea are low-income people, residing outside Riga, as well as young people in the age group of 15 – 30.

18% of Latvian citizens and every second non-citizen support the idea to join the CIS. These data were collected during the opinion poll within the program On the Way to a Civic Society. Most of citizens who support this idea are low-income people, residing outside Riga, as well as young people in the age group of 15 – 30. Vesti Segodnya

 

During the next year only 20% of non-citizens plan to get naturalized, 72% do not plan anything and 8% have not thought about it. These are also the data collected by the same opinion poll.

During the next year only 20% of non-citizens plan to get naturalized, 72% do not plan anything and 8% have not thought about it. These are also the data collected by the same opinion poll. Vesti Segodnya

Latvian prime minister Andris Berzins on Tuesday will host dinner for ambassadors from European Union (EU) member and candidate states accredited in Latvia to exchange opinion about Latvia's progress in pre-accession talks during Sweden's presidency term about to end. Dinner will be attended by ambassador from the EU member and candidate states resident in Riga as well as Belgium ambassador Louis Engelen as Belgium will be the next EU presiding country, the Latvian government press service reported to

Latvian prime minister Andris Berzins on Tuesday will host dinner for ambassadors from European Union (EU) member and candidate states accredited in Latvia to exchange opinion about Latvia's progress in pre-accession talks during Sweden's presidency term about to end. Dinner will be attended by ambassador from the EU member and candidate states resident in Riga as well as Belgium ambassador Louis Engelen as Belgium will be the next EU presiding country, the Latvian government press service reported to BNS. On June 15 and 16 Latvian premier Andris Berzins and foreign minister Indulis Berzins at the invitation of Swedish premier Goran Persson will join the closing ceremony of Sweden's six-month EU presidency term in Gothenburg. BNS

NATO: citizenship to all! This is the title of article in

NATO: citizenship to all! This is the title of article in Vesti Segodnya where A.Arkadyev writes about the visit of American senator B.Jackson. He assured that Latvias joining NATO was very soon but the major problem on the way was the rights of the Russian speakers in Latvia. He repeated that the USA and other countries wanted from Latvia not just a formal integration by adopting corresponding programs, declarations, etc. but wished to see a sincere wish of state authorities to integrate national minorities. B.Jackson said that for the next 18 months they would put a special pressure on Estonia and Latvia.

N.Kabanov writes that Latvian people want them, Russians, to speak the Latvian language. Not exactly the whole nation but the majority. And they are represented at the Saeima. And this problem should be dealt with. N.Kabanov states that nobody but the intellectually disturbed minority wants to learn another language. And behind the idea that everybody should speak the Latvian language state authorities are hiding assimilation – Latvianisation.

N.Kabanov writes that Latvian people want them, Russians, to speak the Latvian language. Not exactly the whole nation but the majority. And they are represented at the Saeima. And this problem should be dealt with. N.Kabanov states that nobody but the intellectually disturbed minority wants to learn another language. And behind the idea that everybody should speak the Latvian language state authorities are hiding assimilation – Latvianisation. Vesti Segodnya

The newspaper

The newspaper Diena (01.06.01) published an interview with Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov. The Ambassador stated that in Russias relations with Latvia there was just one priority – development of relations both in political and economic spheres. Work is being done but it is important that it would proceed at the same speed both in economic and humanitarian fields. He did not deny that priority was also protection of the rights of Russians and Russian speaking Latvian citizens, non-citizens. And it was no wonder that the Ambassador was not satisfied with the decision to start from 2004 tuition in the Latvian language in all secondary schools. When speaking about economic relations the Ambassador assured that the transit through Venspils would not decrease due to construction of ports in Russia.

Press Report

Press Report

Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK party Wednesday violated the government coalition agreement by supporting a proposal of Social Democrats, its partner on the Riga city council but parliamentary opposition, concerning amendments to the pension law. The premier has denied this could be a prelude to government ousting. FF/LNNK voted in support of Social Democrat proposal after the parliament in a secret ballot turned down its candidate for a post on the National Radio and Television Council. After that vote FF/LNNK leader Maris Grinblats voiced indignation saying their candidate was turned down by coalition partners Latvia's Way and People's Party who denied the accusations though. Their votes can not be checked out because the vote was secret.

Fatherland and Freedom/LNNK party Wednesday violated the government coalition agreement by supporting a proposal of Social Democrats, its partner on the Riga city council but parliamentary opposition, concerning amendments to the pension law. The premier has denied this could be a prelude to government ousting. FF/LNNK voted in support of Social Democrat proposal after the parliament in a secret ballot turned down its candidate for a post on the National Radio and Television Council. After that vote FF/LNNK leader Maris Grinblats voiced indignation saying their candidate was turned down by coalition partners Latvia's Way and People's Party who denied the accusations though. Their votes can not be checked out because the vote was secret. BNS, Diena, Respublika, Panorama Latvii, Chas

Latvian Foreign Ministry state secretary Maris Riekstins on Tuesday met with United States NATO committee president Bruce Jackson, currently on visit to Latvia, and presented to him Latvia's progress on its way to NATO, the ministry's press service reported. Riekstins and Jackson discussed steps to be taken to strengthen support by the US and other NATO members to enlargement of the alliance. The US NATO committee president arrived in Latvia to examine the Baltic State’s progress on its way to NATO and to meet with top Latvian officials. On Wednesday the US official is expected to meet with Latvian defence minister Girts Valdis Kristovskis and speak at the conference organised by the Latvian Trans-Atlantic Organisation. BNS

Latvian Foreign Ministry state secretary Maris Riekstins on Tuesday met with United States NATO committee president Bruce Jackson, currently on visit to Latvia, and presented to him Latvia's progress on its way to NATO, the ministry's press service reported. Riekstins and Jackson discussed steps to be taken to strengthen support by the US and other NATO members to enlargement of the alliance. The US NATO committee president arrived in Latvia to examine the Baltic States progress on its way to NATO and to meet with top Latvian officials. On Wednesday the US official is expected to meet with Latvian defence minister Girts Valdis Kristovskis and speak at the conference organised by the Latvian Trans-Atlantic Organisation. BNS

United States NATO committee president Bruce Jackson, currently on visit to Latvia, called on the Baltic country to pay more attention to compliance with political criteria set forth for NATO candidates. At the talks with Latvian lawmakers Tuesday the US representative said that after excellent military success demonstrated by the Baltic in the process of integrating into NATO more attention will be paid to treatment of Russian and Jewish minorities, efforts to combat corruption and crime as well as presence of foreign secret services. Now, when military progress has been achieved, values and political criteria will become increasingly important, said Jackson. He believes that admission of the Baltic States to NATO in 2002 could be prevented only by some flop on part of the candidates or change of position among supporters. Jackson also met with a Latvian lawmaker representing the opposition left-wing bloc For Human Rights, Martijans Bekasovs, who suggested that Latvia should at first solve its social problems and only then tackle external security. The US official pointed out that it was dangerous position. One cannot hope that after the Prague summit the situation will be as favourable for Latvia as it is now, therefore the opportunity should be taken today, he added. NATO is not an end; it is a means, said Jackson. It will be cheaper to acquire partners and integrate into Trans-Atlantic structures as in that case it will become easier to solve social problems as well. The talks with the opposition lawmaker focused mostly on social problems and anti-corruption efforts. Jackson met also with Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, and they discussed mainly the US leadership in Trans-Atlantic security, noting US-Latvian co-operation within joint defence projects. Both officials agreed that Baltic membership in NATO would contribute to peace, stability and development in the region, the presidential press service reported.

United States NATO committee president Bruce Jackson, currently on visit to Latvia, called on the Baltic country to pay more attention to compliance with political criteria set forth for NATO candidates. At the talks with Latvian lawmakers Tuesday the US representative said that after excellent military success demonstrated by the Baltic in the process of integrating into NATO more attention will be paid to treatment of Russian and Jewish minorities, efforts to combat corruption and crime as well as presence of foreign secret services. Now, when military progress has been achieved, values and political criteria will become increasingly important, said Jackson. He believes that admission of the Baltic States to NATO in 2002 could be prevented only by some flop on part of the candidates or change of position among supporters. Jackson also met with a Latvian lawmaker representing the opposition left-wing bloc For Human Rights, Martijans Bekasovs, who suggested that Latvia should at first solve its social problems and only then tackle external security. The US official pointed out that it was dangerous position. One cannot hope that after the Prague summit the situation will be as favourable for Latvia as it is now, therefore the opportunity should be taken today, he added. NATO is not an end; it is a means, said Jackson. It will be cheaper to acquire partners and integrate into Trans-Atlantic structures as in that case it will become easier to solve social problems as well. The talks with the opposition lawmaker focused mostly on social problems and anti-corruption efforts. Jackson met also with Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, and they discussed mainly the US leadership in Trans-Atlantic security, noting US-Latvian co-operation within joint defence projects. Both officials agreed that Baltic membership in NATO would contribute to peace, stability and development in the region, the presidential press service reported. BNS, Chas

Yesterday in a open discussion with Mr. Jackson opposition representatives from For Human Rights in United Latvia the faction leader J.Jurkans formulated their position concerning Latvia’s joining NATO – two community society in Latvia was not stable and could not solve the questions of its defence; there was no external danger for Latvia and not from Russia; 2% of GDP for defence was too much when for health care the state spent only 3%; J.Jurkans was not against Latvia’s joining NATO but it should not be a priority. First comes EU only then NATO.

Yesterday in a open discussion with Mr. Jackson opposition representatives from For Human Rights in United Latvia the faction leader J.Jurkans formulated their position concerning Latvias joining NATO – two community society in Latvia was not stable and could not solve the questions of its defence; there was no external danger for Latvia and not from Russia; 2% of GDP for defence was too much when for health care the state spent only 3%; J.Jurkans was not against Latvias joining NATO but it should not be a priority. First comes EU only then NATO. Chas

Baltic Assembly Presidium Chairman Romualds Razuks in the joint meeting of the Baltic Assembly and Nordic Council Thursday in Riga will urge to proclaim nearing to the Nordic countries as a priority for the Baltic states. Razuks expressed the remark Thursday in an interview with Latvian State radio. He said that after the integration into the European Union and NATO the Baltic states will have to answer to a question "who and where will we be, what interests will we voice, how will we be able to use advantages provided by Northern dimension".

Baltic Assembly Presidium Chairman Romualds Razuks in the joint meeting of the Baltic Assembly and Nordic Council Thursday in Riga will urge to proclaim nearing to the Nordic countries as a priority for the Baltic states. Razuks expressed the remark Thursday in an interview with Latvian State radio. He said that after the integration into the European Union and NATO the Baltic states will have to answer to a question "who and where will we be, what interests will we voice, how will we be able to use advantages provided by Northern dimension". BNS, Neatkariga

Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov while visiting Venspils met with the Mayor A.Lembergs and City Council members. When discussing economical relations A.Lembergs stressed that quite often administrative methods dictate the model and possibilities of co-operation between entrepreneurs of both countries thus disturbing economical development of both countries. Answering to this the Ambassador assured that Mayor’s point of view was a little bit aggravated, but it was not bad. Russia’s export through Venspils would increase but at the same time Russia was interested to construct and develop its own ports.

Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov while visiting Venspils met with the Mayor A.Lembergs and City Council members. When discussing economical relations A.Lembergs stressed that quite often administrative methods dictate the model and possibilities of co-operation between entrepreneurs of both countries thus disturbing economical development of both countries. Answering to this the Ambassador assured that Mayors point of view was a little bit aggravated, but it was not bad. Russias export through Venspils would increase but at the same time Russia was interested to construct and develop its own ports. Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnya, Chas

According to unofficial information the recently established ruling coalition in Riga City Council would like to deprive the representatives of For Human Rights in United Latvia of authority in the Council. On Monday the Riga City Property and Privatisation Affairs Commission adopted a draft decision where it was envisaged to stipulate that the manager of local government privatisation fund would be the deputy chairman of the Council. For this post was named the representative of For Human Rights in United Latvia S.Dolgopolov but the position members did not like this idea because this naming would increase influence of left wingers and could result in control over privatisation fund.

According to unofficial information the recently established ruling coalition in Riga City Council would like to deprive the representatives of For Human Rights in United Latvia of authority in the Council. On Monday the Riga City Property and Privatisation Affairs Commission adopted a draft decision where it was envisaged to stipulate that the manager of local government privatisation fund would be the deputy chairman of the Council. For this post was named the representative of For Human Rights in United Latvia S.Dolgopolov but the position members did not like this idea because this naming would increase influence of left wingers and could result in control over privatisation fund. Neatkariga

An obscure organisation, calling itself the Latvian National Liberation Movement (LNLM), Wednesday sent to several media a statement, claiming responsibility for explosions in a shopping mall in Riga centre last summer. Interior Ministry spokesman Normunds Belskis told BNS that the Security Police had started investigation to find out whether this statement was substantiated and who were the authors of the document. "We assume responsibility for the explosion in the Centrs shopping mall. We fight for free Latvia," the organisation said in its statement. According to the LNLM home page at http://www.emucities.com. au/member/lnak2000/Index.htm, the organisation is fighting for free Latvia as, having got rid from the Soviet occupation, the state allowed "others to exploit us."

An obscure organisation, calling itself the Latvian National Liberation Movement (LNLM), Wednesday sent to several media a statement, claiming responsibility for explosions in a shopping mall in Riga centre last summer. Interior Ministry spokesman Normunds Belskis told BNS that the Security Police had started investigation to find out whether this statement was substantiated and who were the authors of the document. "We assume responsibility for the explosion in the Centrs shopping mall. We fight for free Latvia," the organisation said in its statement. According to the LNLM home page at http://www.emucities.com. au/member/lnak2000/Index.htm, the organisation is fighting for free Latvia as, having got rid from the Soviet occupation, the state allowed "others to exploit us." BNS, Vesti Segodnya, Panorama Latvii

Press Report

Press Report

Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski during his visit to Riga on Tuesday met with Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins and invited him to visit Poland.

Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski during his visit to Riga on Tuesday met with Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins and invited him to visit Poland. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Rigas Balss, Latvijas Vestnesis, Jauna Avize, Respublika, Chas

The top three of most popular Latvian politicians remained unchanged in May with president of the state Vaira Vike-Freiberga heading the list, the latest opinion poll showed. Vike-Freiberga was followed by Bank of Latvia President Einars Repse and parliament speaker Janis Straume, according to the public opinion poll conducted in May by the SKDS sociological research company. Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars likewise maintained the fourth place he took in April, and his father, Social Democrat leader Juris Bojars was in the fifth place. BNS

The top three of most popular Latvian politicians remained unchanged in May with president of the state Vaira Vike-Freiberga heading the list, the latest opinion poll showed. Vike-Freiberga was followed by Bank of Latvia President Einars Repse and parliament speaker Janis Straume, according to the public opinion poll conducted in May by the SKDS sociological research company. Riga Mayor Gundars Bojars likewise maintained the fourth place he took in April, and his father, Social Democrat leader Juris Bojars was in the fifth place. BNS

The opposition party of Social Democrats remained the most popular political party in Latvia in May, although its rating keeps falling, according to the latest opinion poll conducted by SKDS sociological research company. The People's Party from the ruling coalition was able to maintain the second place, and Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK, also from the ruling coalition, was the third most popular political party in Latvia in May. Contrary to Social Democrats, both the People's Party and FF/LNNK have been able to improve their ratings in the outgoing month.

The opposition party of Social Democrats remained the most popular political party in Latvia in May, although its rating keeps falling, according to the latest opinion poll conducted by SKDS sociological research company. The People's Party from the ruling coalition was able to maintain the second place, and Fatherland and Freedom (FF)/LNNK, also from the ruling coalition, was the third most popular political party in Latvia in May. Contrary to Social Democrats, both the People's Party and FF/LNNK have been able to improve their ratings in the outgoing month. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga,

 

Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director Nils Muiznieks believes that ethnic discrimination in Latvia has transformed into social discrimination as the Latvian language had been used to oust part of population from labour market and social life. In the interview to the Russian-language newspaper Vesti Segodnya published Wednesday the human rights advocate said: "In last five years integration has been accompanied by disintegration. With the help of the Latvian language a whole group of Latvia's residents have been altogether displaced from the labour market and social life." "A group of people 'pushed overboard' is forming in Latvia recently. Mostly these are representatives of ethnic minorities left without any niche for existence whatsoever," said Muiznieks. As an example to describe this situation he referred to results of public opinion polls showing that one-third of Latvia's non-citizens will not be able to take jobs requiring Latvian language proficiency. Muiznieks said that it dramatically limited professional opportunities of these people, rendering them unable to compete. "They will be the first to lose job, the first to get evicted over failure to pay rent and the first to find themselves on the outskirts of the society," he said.

Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre director Nils Muiznieks believes that ethnic discrimination in Latvia has transformed into social discrimination as the Latvian language had been used to oust part of population from labour market and social life. In the interview to the Russian-language newspaper Vesti Segodnya published Wednesday the human rights advocate said: "In last five years integration has been accompanied by disintegration. With the help of the Latvian language a whole group of Latvia's residents have been altogether displaced from the labour market and social life." "A group of people 'pushed overboard' is forming in Latvia recently. Mostly these are representatives of ethnic minorities left without any niche for existence whatsoever," said Muiznieks. As an example to describe this situation he referred to results of public opinion polls showing that one-third of Latvia's non-citizens will not be able to take jobs requiring Latvian language proficiency. Muiznieks said that it dramatically limited professional opportunities of these people, rendering them unable to compete. "They will be the first to lose job, the first to get evicted over failure to pay rent and the first to find themselves on the outskirts of the society," he said. Vesti Segodnya, BNS

 

After one month all Latvian residents will be able to address the Constitutional Court with their complain in cases if the state has violated any of their rights stipulated by the Satversme. But, as pointed out the Chairman of this court A.Endzins, CC would not be the fourth level court that would review decisions of lower level courts.

After one month all Latvian residents will be able to address the Constitutional Court with their complain in cases if the state has violated any of their rights stipulated by the Satversme. But, as pointed out the Chairman of this court A.Endzins, CC would not be the fourth level court that would review decisions of lower level courts. Diena

Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov went on an introduction visit to Liepaja. In his statement he was positive about the expansion of economic co-operation between both countries. Both for Russia and Latvia good neighbourly relations are important and the Ambassador pointed out that he had only positive impressions during his two months staying in Latvia. In the nearest future I.Studennikov plans to visit some other Latvian cities.

Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov went on an introduction visit to Liepaja. In his statement he was positive about the expansion of economic co-operation between both countries. Both for Russia and Latvia good neighbourly relations are important and the Ambassador pointed out that he had only positive impressions during his two months staying in Latvia. In the nearest future I.Studennikov plans to visit some other Latvian cities. Neatkariga

The newspaper

The newspaper Rigas Balss, analysing the data of the New citizens opinion poll, writes that these people name the fact that they live in Latvia and wish to remain here as the main reason for receiving Latvian citizenship (96%). 90% say that they want to be related to this state and 89% assure that the status of a citizen let them feel as full-fledged Latvian citizens. 82% stated that they wanted to participate in the Saeima elections.

Latvian Foreign Ministry state secretary Maris Riekstins on Tuesday met with United States NATO committee president Bruce Jackson, currently on visit to Latvia, and presented to him Latvia's progress on its way to NATO, the ministry's press service reported. Riekstins and Jackson discussed steps to be taken to strengthen support by the US and other NATO members to enlargement of the alliance.

Latvian Foreign Ministry state secretary Maris Riekstins on Tuesday met with United States NATO committee president Bruce Jackson, currently on visit to Latvia, and presented to him Latvia's progress on its way to NATO, the ministry's press service reported. Riekstins and Jackson discussed steps to be taken to strengthen support by the US and other NATO members to enlargement of the alliance. BNS

Starting with the next school year there will be no first classes in 4 Riga schools. One of the reasons is the poor economical situation in Latvia, another – more and more Russian speaking parents decide to send their descendants to Latvian speaking schools. Such is the situation in Russian speaking schools No 42 and 57 and Brekshi Elementary School.

Starting with the next school year there will be no first classes in 4 Riga schools. One of the reasons is the poor economical situation in Latvia, another – more and more Russian speaking parents decide to send their descendants to Latvian speaking schools. Such is the situation in Russian speaking schools No 42 and 57 and Brekshi Elementary School. Vesti Segodnya

The second year is coming to an end after the new law on education was adopted. According to Article 43 schools with the Russian language of tuition have to receive a license on their national minority education program of change to tuition in the state language. But in reality there is nothing to license. In many schools there are no education programs – they are not able to develop them themselves. And the state does not provide sufficient financing and methodological aid; there are only bilingual models available. Therefore the Public Council on Education, Science and Culture of the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia together with the newspaper Chas announces an action “State support to national minority education programs”. The letter with demands is addressed to the Minister of Education and Science K.Greiskalns.

The second year is coming to an end after the new law on education was adopted. According to Article 43 schools with the Russian language of tuition have to receive a license on their national minority education program of change to tuition in the state language. But in reality there is nothing to license. In many schools there are no education programs – they are not able to develop them themselves. And the state does not provide sufficient financing and methodological aid; there are only bilingual models available. Therefore the Public Council on Education, Science and Culture of the faction For Human Rights in United Latvia together with the newspaper Chas announces an action State support to national minority education programs. The letter with demands is addressed to the Minister of Education and Science K.Greiskalns. Chas

Press Report

Press Report

An Australian court on Tuesday ruled that alleged Nazi war criminal Konrads Kalejs should be extradited to Latvia where he is wanted on charges of war crimes and genocide. Kalejs' lawyers are appealing.

An Australian court on Tuesday ruled that alleged Nazi war criminal Konrads Kalejs should be extradited to Latvia where he is wanted on charges of war crimes and genocide. Kalejs' lawyers are appealing. BNS

As many as 65 percent of Latvians who have acquired the country's citizenship only recently support accession to the European Union, according to an opinion poll conducted among new citizens in April by Baltic social sciences institute. Results of the opinion poll conducted among naturalised citizens were revealed Monday in a conference called "Towards a Civic Society - 2001". The opinion poll shows that Latvia is made more attractive in the eyes of naturalised non-Latvians by the expected

As many as 65 percent of Latvians who have acquired the country's citizenship only recently support accession to the European Union, according to an opinion poll conducted among new citizens in April by Baltic social sciences institute. Results of the opinion poll conducted among naturalised citizens were revealed Monday in a conference called "Towards a Civic Society - 2001". The opinion poll shows that Latvia is made more attractive in the eyes of naturalised non-Latvians by the expected

accession to the EU. Answering to a question what circumstances may in the future give a chance to become the EU citizens, a half of respondents cited Latvia's citizenship as the first precondition. A significantly smaller portion of new citizens support Latvia's accession to NATO as only 31 new citizens regard it as desirable against 59 percent among "old" citizens. Accession to NATO is supported by only 26 percent of non-citizens. More new citizens than "old" citizens believe that Latvia needs a society integration program that should be headed by the state. 67 percent of new citizens relate society integration to the need to build sense of belonging to the country. Such view also is held by 57 percent of citizens and 49 percent of non-citizens. The poll questioned 404 people who acquired Latvia's citizenship between 1995 and 2001.

accession to the EU. Answering to a question what circumstances may in the future give a chance to become the EU citizens, a half of respondents cited Latvia's citizenship as the first precondition. A significantly smaller portion of new citizens support Latvia's accession to NATO as only 31 new citizens regard it as desirable against 59 percent among "old" citizens. Accession to NATO is supported by only 26 percent of non-citizens. More new citizens than "old" citizens believe that Latvia needs a society integration program that should be headed by the state. 67 percent of new citizens relate society integration to the need to build sense of belonging to the country. Such view also is held by 57 percent of citizens and 49 percent of non-citizens. The poll questioned 404 people who acquired Latvia's citizenship between 1995 and 2001. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Latvijas Vestnesis

A.Stroy in

A.Stroy in Chas comments these statements about the new Latvian citizens saying that these people have not lost their values – 73% of then still would like to have the Russian language as the second state language. Also Panorama Latvii

Vesti Segodnya comments this integration conference stating that for a real integration there is no need for any debates of state officials and MPs – the state just has to show that it respects its residents. The Head of the Naturalisation Board E.Aldermane reminded a simple formula Attitude creates attitude, but this simple formula is not observed in Latvia. The Head of the OSCE Mission to Latvia P.Semneby pointed out the fact that people in Latvia did trust authorities. And the reason for it is the scornful attitude towards people, especially those who speak not the right language.

Some 40 percent of Latvia's non-citizens want to live here but not change their status by becoming Latvia's citizens, Naturalisation Department head Eizenija Aldermane said in a conference. She said in address to the conference "Towards a Civic Society - 2001" that Latvia's civic society will lose the most part of residents if a dialogue with non-citizens is not developed at the state level. "The most important question at this point is -- how to influence that part of youths who at this point do no feel sense of belonging to the Latvian state and also to listen to opinions of people of other nationalities and proposals about society integration," said Aldermane. Justice Minister Ingrida Labucka in her opening address to the conference cited education as the most important aspect of society integration process to which should be devoted the utmost attention by promoting Latvian language learning by people of other nationalities.

Some 40 percent of Latvia's non-citizens want to live here but not change their status by becoming Latvia's citizens, Naturalisation Department head Eizenija Aldermane said in a conference. She said in address to the conference "Towards a Civic Society - 2001" that Latvia's civic society will lose the most part of residents if a dialogue with non-citizens is not developed at the state level. "The most important question at this point is -- how to influence that part of youths who at this point do no feel sense of belonging to the Latvian state and also to listen to opinions of people of other nationalities and proposals about society integration," said Aldermane. Justice Minister Ingrida Labucka in her opening address to the conference cited education as the most important aspect of society integration process to which should be devoted the utmost attention by promoting Latvian language learning by people of other nationalities. BNS

Director of Human Rights Office O.Bruveris so far was named as the only candidate for this post for the next four years term. The Saeima will vote on this issue on Wednesday. Some time ago Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre Director N.Muiznieks suggested that it would be more healthy to create competition for this post but parties seemed unwilling to have a strong human rights protector not to have strong control over situation and criticism of the government. N.Muiznieks suggested some more candidates – J.Briede Latvian University professor, lawyer E.Vebers, judge V.Krumina and diplomat A.Baumanis. In his turn Acting Director of Latvian University Human Rights Institute M.Mits named also former Human Rights Office lawyer I.Reine who was currently working in Kosovo.

Director of Human Rights Office O.Bruveris so far was named as the only candidate for this post for the next four years term. The Saeima will vote on this issue on Wednesday. Some time ago Latvian Human Rights and Ethnic Studies Centre Director N.Muiznieks suggested that it would be more healthy to create competition for this post but parties seemed unwilling to have a strong human rights protector not to have strong control over situation and criticism of the government. N.Muiznieks suggested some more candidates – J.Briede Latvian University professor, lawyer E.Vebers, judge V.Krumina and diplomat A.Baumanis. In his turn Acting Director of Latvian University Human Rights Institute M.Mits named also former Human Rights Office lawyer I.Reine who was currently working in Kosovo. Diena

On Monday Riga City Council official S.Zaletajev, whose state language proficiency level was doubted about, violated the state language law conducting a press conference in the Russian language. To this event he had invited only the journalists he preferred but later assured that it was not so.

On Monday Riga City Council official S.Zaletajev, whose state language proficiency level was doubted about, violated the state language law conducting a press conference in the Russian language. To this event he had invited only the journalists he preferred but later assured that it was not so. Diena

Coalition partners do not take seriously the criticism voiced by the People’s Party leader A.Skele at People’s Party congress.

Coalition partners do not take seriously the criticism voiced by the Peoples Party leader A.Skele at Peoples Party congress. Neatkariga

Almost a month has passed since Latvian Embassy in Russia sent 2 notes to the Russian MFA on staining Latvian Embassy building with paint but no official answer had been received so far.

Almost a month has passed since Latvian Embassy in Russia sent 2 notes to the Russian MFA on staining Latvian Embassy building with paint but no official answer had been received so far. Neatkariga, Rigas Balss

The newspaper

The newspaper Lauku Avize published comments of Latvian MPs after the meeting with Russian Ambassador I.Studennikov where he reproached Latvia for its wish to join NATO thus endangering Russia. FF/LNNK representative G.Krasts says that it was just voicing of former Russias position and it was Ambassadors duty to do it. G.Krasts thinks that Latvia should not worry much about this Russias position because it is a temporary current opinion. A.Kirsteins form Peoples Party thinks that relations with Russia will improve after Latvias joining NATO. What concerns accusations about violation in the education field, A.Kirsteins says that Latvia should not even start talking about this before in the Russian village Lejas Bulani where many Latvians reside is opened a Latvian school.

Today Polish President A.Kvasnevsky is coming on a working visit to Latvia. Soon after arrival he together with Latvian President will open an exhibit of Polish national economy. After this event will be the official meeting of both presidents.

Today Polish President A.Kvasnevsky is coming on a working visit to Latvia. Soon after arrival he together with Latvian President will open an exhibit of Polish national economy. After this event will be the official meeting of both presidents. Latvijas Vestnesis, Chas

The leader of Russian Party M.Gavrilov opposite to the opinion of other party members signed the coalition agreement with FF/LNNK, i.e. with the ruling coalition in Riga City Council.

The leader of Russian Party M.Gavrilov opposite to the opinion of other party members signed the coalition agreement with FF/LNNK, i.e. with the ruling coalition in Riga City Council. Panorama Latvii

Press Report

US Senate Foreign committee European sub-committee leader, republican Gordon Smith expressed support to the Baltic NATO bid on Sunday in Riga, expecting US President George W Bush to take a very active stance on the issue. Smith forecasted that Bush would be an active supporter of NATO expansion, while resistance may be felt from a few countries in Europe, which he did not wish to name, claiming that "Their actions will speak for themselves".

US Senate Foreign committee European sub-committee leader, republican Gordon Smith expressed support to the Baltic NATO bid on Sunday in Riga, expecting US President George W Bush to take a very active stance on the issue. Smith forecasted that Bush would be an active supporter of NATO expansion, while resistance may be felt from a few countries in Europe, which he did not wish to name, claiming that "Their actions will speak for themselves". BNS, Diena, Neatkariga

The four US Senators visiting Latvia on Sunday before heading to Vilnius for a NATO parliamentary assembly, suggested to the Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga that Latvia should lobby its achievements towards its NATO bid more actively, in order to lean alliance members in favour of Latvian NATO accession. The President's spokesperson, Aiva Rozenberga, said that during their dinner with the President, the US senators expressed support to Latvia's NATO bid, adding that Latvia still has much to do in order to persuade the broader US public of the need for expanding the alliance.

The four US Senators visiting Latvia on Sunday before heading to Vilnius for a NATO parliamentary assembly, suggested to the Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga that Latvia should lobby its achievements towards its NATO bid more actively, in order to lean alliance members in favour of Latvian NATO accession. The President's spokesperson, Aiva Rozenberga, said that during their dinner with the President, the US senators expressed support to Latvia's NATO bid, adding that Latvia still has much to do in order to persuade the broader US public of the need for expanding the alliance. BNS

Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins is scheduled to head for Brussels Monday on a mission to meet with the European Union expansion commissioner Gunter Verheugen. The aim of the meeting is to discuss a number of crucial issues for Latvia before the end of the Swedish EU presidency and the Gotteborg summit meeting, issues like the speeding up the SAPARD program funding. The Prime Minister's foreign advisor, Atis Sjanits, said that the funding has been delayed due to slow bureaucracy.

Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins is scheduled to head for Brussels Monday on a mission to meet with the European Union expansion commissioner Gunter Verheugen. The aim of the meeting is to discuss a number of crucial issues for Latvia before the end of the Swedish EU presidency and the Gotteborg summit meeting, issues like the speeding up the SAPARD program funding. The Prime Minister's foreign advisor, Atis Sjanits, said that the funding has been delayed due to slow bureaucracy. BNS

On Saturday in Gulbene took place People’s Party congress. Speakers at the Congress were proud about their success during the previous local government election and work of their ministers, but criticised their coalition members FF/LNNK for co-operation with the left wingers at the Riga City Council and Latvian Way for moderation in managing the government. A decision was taken to hold the next congress only after the 8th Saeima election. By that time A.Skele will continue to lead the party.

On Saturday in Gulbene took place Peoples Party congress. Speakers at the Congress were proud about their success during the previous local government election and work of their ministers, but criticised their coalition members FF/LNNK for co-operation with the left wingers at the Riga City Council and Latvian Way for moderation in managing the government. A decision was taken to hold the next congress only after the 8th Saeima election. By that time A.Skele will continue to lead the party. Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna Avize, Chas

A delegation of Latvian parliament members led by parliament chairman Janis Straume will be on an official visit in China between May 27 through June 5. The trip is intended as a reply visit to last year's Chinese delegation visit to Latvia, led by chairman of the Chinese people's assembly Lee Pen.

A delegation of Latvian parliament members led by parliament chairman Janis Straume will be on an official visit in China between May 27 through June 5. The trip is intended as a reply visit to last year's Chinese delegation visit to Latvia, led by chairman of the Chinese people's assembly Lee Pen. BNS

Deputy Chairman of Latvian Social Democratic Workers’ Party E.Baldzens announced that the leader of Social Democrats J.Bojars planned to present the new version of Latvian constitution in autumn when it would be discussed within the party. Diena

Deputy Chairman of Latvian Social Democratic Workers Party E.Baldzens announced that the leader of Social Democrats J.Bojars planned to present the new version of Latvian constitution in autumn when it would be discussed within the party. Diena

D.Araja in

D.Araja in Diena writes about the situation that has arisen after reorganisation of the State Language Certification Commission. For inmates of several Latvian prisons it became impossible to take the language proficiency test after finishing the language-training course. Some time ago a decision was taken to abolish language commissions al local governments. These commissions used to come to prisons to take language tests but now the Centralised Language Commission did not visit prisons because it was not stipulated by law. Language proficiency certificate is very important for those people when they start looking for job after discharge. Ministry of Education and Science Education Content and Examination Centre promises that these problems will be solved in the nearest future and probably already in June inmates would be able to take the test. Latvian language training was started in prisons in 1995 and continued until the beginning of this year with the financing of Soros Foundation Latvia. So far about 2000 prisoners have received language proficiency certificates.

Latvian parliamentarians have not met with Byelorussian President A.Lukashenko because it was not on the agenda. They met with the Prime Minister, First deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Head of President’ s Office. Latvian MPs went on this visit upon an invitation of Byelorussian Parliament.

Latvian parliamentarians have not met with Byelorussian President A.Lukashenko because it was not on the agenda. They met with the Prime Minister, First deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Head of President s Office. Latvian MPs went on this visit upon an invitation of Byelorussian Parliament. Jauna Avize

The newspaper

The newspaper Jauna Avize interviewed the Head of Human Rights Office O.Bruveris. Today expires his term of authority and the Cabinet of Ministers proposed to extend it for one more term.

The experience of Riga City officials to close Russian speaking schools is spreading in province. The newspaper already wrote about the situation in Jelgava, and now the same happens in Jekabpils. Local government plans to close Secondary School No 4. Local Latvian Gymnasium chose the two buildings of this school as the possible location for it to receive the status of a national Gymnasium. And therefore local municipality decided to merge two Russian speaking schools No 2 and 4 into one. This plan does not satisfy the teachers and students of these schools because these two schools are located on the opposite banks of the river Daugava.

The experience of Riga City officials to close Russian speaking schools is spreading in province. The newspaper already wrote about the situation in Jelgava, and now the same happens in Jekabpils. Local government plans to close Secondary School No 4. Local Latvian Gymnasium chose the two buildings of this school as the possible location for it to receive the status of a national Gymnasium. And therefore local municipality decided to merge two Russian speaking schools No 2 and 4 into one. This plan does not satisfy the teachers and students of these schools because these two schools are located on the opposite banks of the river Daugava. Vesti Segodnya

Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov told

Russian Ambassador to Latvia I.Studennikov told Vesti Segodnya about his meeting with Latvian MPs. When arriving to his new post the Ambassador was full of optimism – the planned meeting of the Presidents of both countries, resuming of activities of intergovernmental Commission seemed a positive sign. But after a month Latvia unilaterally denounced the agreement on transit of Russian citizens on the territory of Latvia. And Latvia ignored Russias protests against persecution of WW II veterans. Instead Latvian parliamentarians established a fund to support repatriation of Russian speakers to Russia. And these were not the only things that spoiled Latvian – Russian relations.

A conference “experience of Latvian cities in solving the problems on integration” took place recently in Venspils. It was organised by the Venspils City Council and the Naturalisation Board. The head of Naturalisation Board E.Aldermane spoke about the role of sociological research promoting the process of integration. Mayor of Venspils A.Lembergs in his presentation said that Venspils was the first Latvian city where was developed and implemented program of integration and acted Council of Non-citizens and the idea that non-citizens should be granted the right of vote in local government elections did not seem a dangerous one. Chas

A conference experience of Latvian cities in solving the problems on integration took place recently in Venspils. It was organised by the Venspils City Council and the Naturalisation Board. The head of Naturalisation Board E.Aldermane spoke about the role of sociological research promoting the process of integration. Mayor of Venspils A.Lembergs in his presentation said that Venspils was the first Latvian city where was developed and implemented program of integration and acted Council of Non-citizens and the idea that non-citizens should be granted the right of vote in local government elections did not seem a dangerous one. Chas