Press Report

The Latvian embassy in Russia has received a response from the Russian Foreign Ministry to Latvia's note about two acts of vandalism perpetrated against the embassy early in May, embassy official reported. Embassy adviser and temporary charge d'affaires Hardijs Baumanis said Russia in the note, dated June 15, reported to the embassy that one person has been detained who smeared the embassy building Apr. 30 and two persons have been detained over the act of vandalism on May 5. The note said the Russian police have opened criminal cases that will determine the degree of guilt and compensation of loss.

The Latvian embassy in Russia has received a response from the Russian Foreign Ministry to Latvia's note about two acts of vandalism perpetrated against the embassy early in May, embassy official reported. Embassy adviser and temporary charge d'affaires Hardijs Baumanis said Russia in the note, dated June 15, reported to the embassy that one person has been detained who smeared the embassy building Apr. 30 and two persons have been detained over the act of vandalism on May 5. The note said the Russian police have opened criminal cases that will determine the degree of guilt and compensation of loss. Neatkariga

Dr. economy R.Karnitis when talking about Latvia’s National Development Plan says that although she is very big nationalist she cannot understand Latvian politicians who claim themselves national radicals as they work against the interests of Latvians. R.Karnite says “We have to involve in public affairs those non-citizens who consider that they do not have rights to influence the situation in the country. I do not understand those politicians who say that Russians and other nationalities have to return to their ethnic countries”.

Dr. economy R.Karnitis when talking about Latvias National Development Plan says that although she is very big nationalist she cannot understand Latvian politicians who claim themselves national radicals as they work against the interests of Latvians. R.Karnite says We have to involve in public affairs those non-citizens who consider that they do not have rights to influence the situation in the country. I do not understand those politicians who say that Russians and other nationalities have to return to their ethnic countries. Chas

Press Report

Press Report

“Mission leader of the Organisation for Co-operation and Security in Europe in Latvia, Peter Semneby, considers the recent controversial Vieda essay contest and book titled We Will Give Latvia to No One, slandered by Russia earlier this week, an embodiment of the author's bad taste, and Russia's reaction - too sharp. Semneby told BNS that he personally considers the Vieda book of selected essays "bad taste", but said that it is in no case promoting national hatred. "Its content is even appalling, but not hateful," said the mission leader. He state the OSCE view that the book expresses in no way the views of Latvian officials and that there is no need to exaggerate its importance, especially because integration of minorities is one of the Latvian government priorities. Asked as to how Semneby assesses the Russian Foreign Ministry's sharp reaction in demanding international organisations to evaluate the issue, Semneby said that these are unnecessary exaggerations. He also said "some claims" don't even fit the book's content. "We don't believe that it would be an issue worth any special attention," said Semneby, explaining that the OSCE has grown interested in the case, due to the discussion arisen by the public. Semneby also corrected that information on the investigation carried out by the Constitutional Protection Office, Latvia's top security body, was asked for not by the OSCE Secretary General, but by the OSCE mission in Latvia. Nevertheless, OSCE mission deputy Neil Brennan told BNS that the report was later passed higher on to the OSCE.

Mission leader of the Organisation for Co-operation and Security in Europe in Latvia, Peter Semneby, considers the recent controversial Vieda essay contest and book titled We Will Give Latvia to No One, slandered by Russia earlier this week, an embodiment of the author's bad taste, and Russia's reaction - too sharp. Semneby told BNS that he personally considers the Vieda book of selected essays "bad taste", but said that it is in no case promoting national hatred. "Its content is even appalling, but not hateful," said the mission leader. He state the OSCE view that the book expresses in no way the views of Latvian officials and that there is no need to exaggerate its importance, especially because integration of minorities is one of the Latvian government priorities. Asked as to how Semneby assesses the Russian Foreign Ministry's sharp reaction in demanding international organisations to evaluate the issue, Semneby said that these are unnecessary exaggerations. He also said "some claims" don't even fit the book's content. "We don't believe that it would be an issue worth any special attention," said Semneby, explaining that the OSCE has grown interested in the case, due to the discussion arisen by the public. Semneby also corrected that information on the investigation carried out by the Constitutional Protection Office, Latvia's top security body, was asked for not by the OSCE Secretary General, but by the OSCE mission in Latvia. Nevertheless, OSCE mission deputy Neil Brennan told BNS that the report was later passed higher on to the OSCE.

As the OSCE became interested in the Vieda contest only to find out the facts and not to research or evaluate in any way, the organisation will not be giving any official announcement, said the mission leader Semneby. The Russian Foreign Ministry earlier this week called on international organisations to assess the Vieda contest and book published thereafter, stating that the contest themes were "openly chauvinistic" and "Russophobic" while the book was full of racist and fascist statements laying grounds for ethnic cleansing. Russia also voiced concerns over authorities making no obstacles for the propagation of racism and national hatred. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also states that the controversial essay contest is "the efforts of a small group to attract attention in a time when Latvia's European and transatlantic integration is strengthening, with no support for such efforts in the Latvian society. It is therefore not understandable as to why other countries may have to express any comments on this case." In late March the Vieda publishing house announced an essay contest four young people promising cash prizes, deemed as balancing on the edge of promoting national hatred by the press. Youths were urged to write about a number of controversial topics on extreme nationalism and the honouring of national partizans and legions, as well as against the European Union and selling Latvian property to foreigners, the need to drive Russians away from Latvia, claimed to be colonialists, etc. On June 12 Vieda presented a book containing over 70 selected essays from the contest, titled - We Will Give Latvia to No One. The book is expected to be handed to a number of high officials.

As the OSCE became interested in the Vieda contest only to find out the facts and not to research or evaluate in any way, the organisation will not be giving any official announcement, said the mission leader Semneby. The Russian Foreign Ministry earlier this week called on international organisations to assess the Vieda contest and book published thereafter, stating that the contest themes were "openly chauvinistic" and "Russophobic" while the book was full of racist and fascist statements laying grounds for ethnic cleansing. Russia also voiced concerns over authorities making no obstacles for the propagation of racism and national hatred. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also states that the controversial essay contest is "the efforts of a small group to attract attention in a time when Latvia's European and transatlantic integration is strengthening, with no support for such efforts in the Latvian society. It is therefore not understandable as to why other countries may have to express any comments on this case." In late March the Vieda publishing house announced an essay contest four young people promising cash prizes, deemed as balancing on the edge of promoting national hatred by the press. Youths were urged to write about a number of controversial topics on extreme nationalism and the honouring of national partizans and legions, as well as against the European Union and selling Latvian property to foreigners, the need to drive Russians away from Latvia, claimed to be colonialists, etc. On June 12 Vieda presented a book containing over 70 selected essays from the contest, titled - We Will Give Latvia to No One. The book is expected to be handed to a number of high officials. BNS, Delfi, Diena

Russian newspaper Vesti Segodnja provides the comments on the opinions expressed by OSCE Mission to Latvia head P.Semneby. The newspaper writes, Has Mr.Semneby read the opus by A.Garda? And if he had read it, then whether it was in original language or in translation made by A.Garda? In any case, the paper sugests that OSCE Mission to Latvia head P.Semneby has some problems in being able to judge/assess the situation. Obviously, he forgot what happened 30 years ago in Miami, and completely does not see what is happening now in Britain. But actually individually expressed opinions served as the ground for the above mentioned events.

The article on the views of the OSCE Mission to Latvia head P.Semneby about Vieda book was published also on Saturday in the internet portal

Delfi where it received 68 comments. The main and rather sharp discussion took place among a Latvian and a few Russians, where Russians express very negative attitude about the book and blames OSCE for being blind. Two main opinions prevail among Latvians: one - the expression of P.Semneby bad taste in regard to the book is considered as too neutral and another – it was a perfect way to show that such organisations as OSCE do not get involved in the affairs of such small importance.

State Language Centre inspectors have established no progress in the language skills of Daugavpils City Council mayor R.Eigims. The last examination took place 3 months ago and then the inspectors established that his speaking ability corresponds to the highest proficiency level III, degree A, however, his writing skills correspond to II level, degree B. The decision of the State Language Centre on the correspondence of R.Eigims language skills to his post will be announced on 18 July. Diena, Rigas Balss, Chas

The Ministry of Education and Science decided that 9 graders of non-Latvian schools who passed the examination in the Latvian language this year will receive a note about the corresponding language proficiency level required to get a job. However, the results cannot be used for naturalisation purposes and it is impossible to receive the highest language proficiency level, even if students have received grades 9-10 in Latvian language exam.

The Ministry of Education and Science decided that 9 graders of non-Latvian schools who passed the examination in the Latvian language this year will receive a note about the corresponding language proficiency level required to get a job. However, the results cannot be used for naturalisation purposes and it is impossible to receive the highest language proficiency level, even if students have received grades 9-10 in Latvian language exam. Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii, Chas

Chas

interviews Society Integration Department of the Ministry of Justice head V.Antonishkis. A part of the interview is devoted to the issues concerning Society Integration Foundation. V.Antonish It was established more for the needs of foreign donators than for Latvia, then he talks about the structure of the Foundation and its functions. In regard to society integration problems he says that he does not agree with the view that a person experiences one or another problem because of his/her nationality, but it is more to do with social discrimination in Latvia. He also does not see a necessity to establish an individual ministry, which would deal with nationality issues. interviews Society Integration Department of the Ministry of Justice head V.Antonishkis. A part of the interview is devoted to the issues concerning Society Integration Foundation. V.Antonish “It was established more for the needs of foreign donators than for Latvia”, then he talks about the structure of the Foundation and its functions. In regard to society integration problems he says that he does not agree with the view that a person experiences one or another problem because of his/her nationality, but it is more to do with social discrimination in Latvia. He also does not see a necessity to establish an individual ministry, which would deal with nationality issues. 

Press Report

Press Report

“OSCE Secretary General Jan Kubis requested from the Latvian top national security agency a statement about controversial youth essay contest held by Vieda publishing company and the book of selected essays published thereafter, whose international assessment has been requested by Russia. Constitution Protection Office (CPO) deputy chief Uldis Dzenitis told BNS he provided on the phone information to prosecutor general about the probe done by the office in Vieda essay contest and book. He said as far as he knows this information has been forwarded to OSCE President Mircea Geoana. Dzenitis said the OSCE official's attitude was favourable towards Latvia and no reproaches were expressed. He also said that in the wake of Russia's appeal to do international assessment of Vieda's contest the CPO has provided statement to Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins, Prosecutor General Janis Maizitis and criminal justice department head prosecutor Eriks Zvejnieks. The Russian Foreign Ministry earlier in the week called on international organisation to assess the contest and the book published thereafter saying the contest themes were "openly chauvinistic" and "russophobic" while the book was full of racist and fascist statements laying grounds for ethnic cleansing. Russia also voiced concerns over authorities making no obstacles to propagation of racism and national intolerance. The Latvian Foreign Ministry meanwhile regards the contest as "a wish of small groups to attract attention at the time when Latvia's integration into the European Union and trans-Atlantic structures is becoming ever closer and, such efforts don't win support in Latvia's society. Therefore it is non-understandable why other countries should make any comments in this connection".

OSCE Secretary General Jan Kubis requested from the Latvian top national security agency a statement about controversial youth essay contest held by Vieda publishing company and the book of selected essays published thereafter, whose international assessment has been requested by Russia. Constitution Protection Office (CPO) deputy chief Uldis Dzenitis told BNS he provided on the phone information to prosecutor general about the probe done by the office in Vieda essay contest and book. He said as far as he knows this information has been forwarded to OSCE President Mircea Geoana. Dzenitis said the OSCE official's attitude was favourable towards Latvia and no reproaches were expressed. He also said that in the wake of Russia's appeal to do international assessment of Vieda's contest the CPO has provided statement to Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins, Prosecutor General Janis Maizitis and criminal justice department head prosecutor Eriks Zvejnieks. The Russian Foreign Ministry earlier in the week called on international organisation to assess the contest and the book published thereafter saying the contest themes were "openly chauvinistic" and "russophobic" while the book was full of racist and fascist statements laying grounds for ethnic cleansing. Russia also voiced concerns over authorities making no obstacles to propagation of racism and national intolerance. The Latvian Foreign Ministry meanwhile regards the contest as "a wish of small groups to attract attention at the time when Latvia's integration into the European Union and trans-Atlantic structures is becoming ever closer and, such efforts don't win support in Latvia's society. Therefore it is non-understandable why other countries should make any comments in this connection". BNS, Delfi, Chas, Vesti Segodnja

Early this week, Latvian police found a bottle of fuel mixture on the stairs of the Cabinet of Ministers, reported the State Police. The bottle was found at 4 am Monday morning. The police are carrying out an investigation. It is not yet known as to who or why the bottle was placed by the government building.

Early this week, Latvian police found a bottle of fuel mixture on the stairs of the Cabinet of Ministers, reported the State Police. The bottle was found at 4 am Monday morning. The police are carrying out an investigation. It is not yet known as to who or why the bottle was placed by the government building. Neatkariga, Jauna, Respublika

The number of naturalisation applications has dropped in June almost for a half in comparison to June last year. The Naturalisation Board explains that besides the fact that naturalisation slows down in summer time, another factor is that new regulations on the reduced state fee came into effect 23 June this year.

The number of naturalisation applications has dropped in June almost for a half in comparison to June last year. The Naturalisation Board explains that besides the fact that naturalisation slows down in summer time, another factor is that new regulations on the reduced state fee came into effect 23 June this year. Diena

Yesterday Russian ambassador to Latvia hold reception for the winners of Russian language Olympics – three Latvian high school students. The Olympics takes place already for 10 years in Moscow, however, Latvia took part in the competition for the second time.

Yesterday Russian ambassador to Latvia hold reception for the winners of Russian language Olympics – three Latvian high school students. The Olympics takes place already for 10 years in Moscow, however, Latvia took part in the competition for the second time. Chas, Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii

Respublika

writes about ethnopolicy in Latvia. The newspaper states there are two possibilities – either the state has continuous, carefully considered ethnopolicy or it does not have it at all as it is in case with Latvia. writes about ethnopolicy in Latvia. The newspaper states “there are two possibilities – either the state has continuous, carefully considered ethnopolicy or it does not have it at all as it is in case with Latvia”. Nils Muizhnieks comments on the situation of Russians in Latvia. First, he talks about situation regarding education. “That is true that Russian students succeed in learning Latvian at schools, however, I would like to look into the issue more deeper. Sometimes I receive information that there are two types of curriculum and study books effective. At some schools, the situation is good for real, however, for some schools it is only façade. Integration is very slow in Latvia and is implemented rather unwillingly. In my opinion Latvian radio and TV are not utilised to their full capacity. About press in Russian – these newspapers remind me weak exile newspapers where journalism is mixed with politics. Our politicians should reserve stupid promises, which provides ground for reproaches from Russia. For example, Vieda contest”.

Nils Muizhnieks comments on the situation of Russians in Latvia. First, he talks about situation regarding education. That is true that Russian students succeed in learning Latvian at schools, however, I would like to look into the issue more deeper. Sometimes I receive information that there are two types of curriculum and study books effective. At some schools, the situation is good for real, however, for some schools it is only fa̤ade. Integration is very slow in Latvia and is implemented rather unwillingly. In my opinion Latvian radio and TV are not utilised to their full capacity. About press in Russian Рthese newspapers remind me weak exile newspapers where journalism is mixed with politics. Our politicians should reserve stupid promises, which provides ground for reproaches from Russia. For example, Vieda contest.

Chas

columnist L.Fedoseyev gives his comments on the review Ethnopolicy in Latvia. He writes, the review is an indicator that something is wrong, but it is not the cure. It does not give the information how Latvian society should look like to be considered healthy. Whats the sense to criticise the government for lackadaisical attitude towards ethnopolicy if actually it is not defined what exactly the government has not done and what it has to do. Till the moment when it is not clearly defined what is integration and integrated society, we are not going to have a positive attitude toward that. columnist L.Fedoseyev gives his comments on the review “Ethnopolicy in Latvia”. He writes, “the review is “an indicator” that something is wrong, but it is not the cure. It does not give the information how Latvian society should look like to be considered healthy. What’s the sense to criticise the government for lackadaisical attitude towards ethnopolicy if actually it is not defined what exactly the government has not done and what it has to do. Till the moment when it is not clearly defined what is integration and integrated society, we are not going to have a positive attitude toward that”.

Press Report

Press Report

European Parliament member and its potential chairman Pat Cox sees no reasons for not admitting Latvia to the European Union in the first round of enlargement because the country has progressed fast during the last year. President of European Parliament Liberal Democratic party group of deputies Cox said following the meeting with Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins he supports differentiated attitude to each of the candidate countries during the admission process.

European Parliament member and its potential chairman Pat Cox sees no reasons for not admitting Latvia to the European Union in the first round of enlargement because the country has progressed fast during the last year. President of European Parliament Liberal Democratic party group of deputies Cox said following the meeting with Latvian Prime Minister Andris Berzins he supports differentiated attitude to each of the candidate countries during the admission process. Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna

Yesterday Latvia and Russia Border Guard Services exchanged with 2 illegal trespassers.

Yesterday Latvia and Russia Border Guard Services exchanged with 2 illegal trespassers. Neatkariga

Latvia's Prime Minister Andris Berzins met with officials from a number of institutions on Wednesday, discussing the recent scandalous Vieda publishing house essay contest, deemed as chauvinistic and russophobic by Russia. Participants of the meeting - the Constitution Protection Office, Security Police and Prosecutor General - claim the contest as "odious" unacceptable and said that it was "not far from promoting national disharmony," reported the Prime Minister's spokesperson. Even though the meeting concluded that extreme right-wing or left-wing ideas do not gain much support in Latvia, "specific manifestations are deemed as attempts at attracting additional interest by groups of small importance at a time when the country is speedily integrating into Euro-Atlantic structures," stated a press announcement. The officials discussed not only the Vieda essay contest but also other publications in Russian and Latvian languages, considered manifestations of right or left wing extremism. The Prime Minister was informed of the general security situation in Latvia with special attention drawn to "possible barriers in context of Latvia's EU and NATO integration." Berzins said that there is still much to be done in order to evade extreme politicised accounts of historical events, as well as other negative aspects which may contribute towards portraying the country in an untrue image, causing disharmony in the Latvian society. Information on various Russian-language newspapers of inadequate descriptions on inter-ethnic relations and development forecasts was also presented. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also states that the controversial essay contest is "the efforts of a small group to attract attention in a time when Latvia's European and transatlantic integration is strengthening, with no support for such efforts in the Latvian society. It is therefore not understandable as to why other countries may have to express any comments on this case," reported the Foreign Ministry. The Latvian Foreign Ministry believes that Latvian officials have acted appropriately and that security institutions have assessed the Vieda contest according to the law. "Latvia's government is firmly following the course for social integration, based on democracy, human rights and justice. The correct direction of this course has on numerous times been admitted by our international partners," reported the Foreign Ministry

Latvia's Prime Minister Andris Berzins met with officials from a number of institutions on Wednesday, discussing the recent scandalous Vieda publishing house essay contest, deemed as chauvinistic and russophobic by Russia. Participants of the meeting - the Constitution Protection Office, Security Police and Prosecutor General - claim the contest as "odious" unacceptable and said that it was "not far from promoting national disharmony," reported the Prime Minister's spokesperson. Even though the meeting concluded that extreme right-wing or left-wing ideas do not gain much support in Latvia, "specific manifestations are deemed as attempts at attracting additional interest by groups of small importance at a time when the country is speedily integrating into Euro-Atlantic structures," stated a press announcement. The officials discussed not only the Vieda essay contest but also other publications in Russian and Latvian languages, considered manifestations of right or left wing extremism. The Prime Minister was informed of the general security situation in Latvia with special attention drawn to "possible barriers in context of Latvia's EU and NATO integration." Berzins said that there is still much to be done in order to evade extreme politicised accounts of historical events, as well as other negative aspects which may contribute towards portraying the country in an untrue image, causing disharmony in the Latvian society. Information on various Russian-language newspapers of inadequate descriptions on inter-ethnic relations and development forecasts was also presented. The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also states that the controversial essay contest is "the efforts of a small group to attract attention in a time when Latvia's European and transatlantic integration is strengthening, with no support for such efforts in the Latvian society. It is therefore not understandable as to why other countries may have to express any comments on this case," reported the Foreign Ministry. The Latvian Foreign Ministry believes that Latvian officials have acted appropriately and that security institutions have assessed the Vieda contest according to the law. "Latvia's government is firmly following the course for social integration, based on democracy, human rights and justice. The correct direction of this course has on numerous times been admitted by our international partners," reported the Foreign Ministry. Vesti Segodnja, Chas, BNS

Next week Latvia is expecting visits of high European officials - EU Enlargement Commissioner Gunter Verheugen will be in Latvia from July 18 to 21, and is set to visit also rural Latvia for the first time and the European Union's Regional Policy Commissioner Michel Barnier will be visiting Latvia from July 16 to 18, meeting with high officials to discuss Latvian EU integration and the union's regional policies. Both officials have scheduled meetings with state President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, Prime Minister Andris Berzins, Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins and other high officials.

Next week Latvia is expecting visits of high European officials - EU Enlargement Commissioner Gunter Verheugen will be in Latvia from July 18 to 21, and is set to visit also rural Latvia for the first time and the European Union's Regional Policy Commissioner Michel Barnier will be visiting Latvia from July 16 to 18, meeting with high officials to discuss Latvian EU integration and the union's regional policies. Both officials have scheduled meetings with state President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, Prime Minister Andris Berzins, Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins and other high officials. Diena

Chas

talks with ITAR-TASS journalist M.Gusmanov after he had interviewed state President V.Vike-Freiberga. The journalist is producing series of TV shows inviting for them the presidents of different countries. M.Gusmanov praises Presidents ability to stand for her views and sense to feel communication partner. talks with ITAR-TASS journalist M.Gusmanov after he had interviewed state President V.Vike-Freiberga. The journalist is producing series of TV shows inviting for them the presidents of different countries. M.Gusmanov praises President’s ability to stand for her views and sense to feel communication partner.

Press Report

Press Report

Latvia this year has climbed by 13 ranks in the United Nations human development index from the previous year and is 50th among 162 countries, the United Nations Development Program in Latvia reported. Last year Latvia was 63rd among 174 countries immediately after Russia, Malaysia and Bulgaria. Still a year earlier Latvia was 74th and three years ago 92nd.

Latvia this year has climbed by 13 ranks in the United Nations human development index from the previous year and is 50th among 162 countries, the United Nations Development Program in Latvia reported. Last year Latvia was 63rd among 174 countries immediately after Russia, Malaysia and Bulgaria. Still a year earlier Latvia was 74th and three years ago 92nd. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas

Latvian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers Tuesday in Baku signed agreement on co-operation between foreign ministries of the two countries and truck transportation as well as discussed opening of Azerbaijani embassy in Riga. Latvian Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins said following the document signing ceremony that apart of the already signed documents currently work is under way on three others, namely, agreement on co-operation in the area of air space, avoiding of double taxation and co-operation between customs services.

Latvian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers Tuesday in Baku signed agreement on co-operation between foreign ministries of the two countries and truck transportation as well as discussed opening of Azerbaijani embassy in Riga. Latvian Foreign Minister Indulis Berzins said following the document signing ceremony that apart of the already signed documents currently work is under way on three others, namely, agreement on co-operation in the area of air space, avoiding of double taxation and co-operation between customs services. Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja

Russia's Foreign Ministry believes that a recent controversial Latvian publishing house essay contest resulting in a book of selected essays should be assessed by international organisations. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Monday that the essay contest is in need of a "clearly stated assessment from aside, first of all from European scale organisations." The Russian Foreign Ministry deems the essay topics as "openly chauvinistic" and "russophobic." "The compilation is overfilled with openly racist and fascist expressions, putting the basis for the next ethnic cleansing into young souls," announced the Russian Foreign Ministry. Authors of the essays published in the book "forbid the Russian speaking population the right to integrate into the Latvian society with equality, according to standards and regulations accepted in modern-day Europe," emphasises the Russian Foreign Ministry. The announcement also states that "we're talking about an open human hatred, russophobic campaign, spread in a country which already has enough problems in the field of human rights and ethnic minority [rights]." "The fact that official institutions did nothing to create barriers for yet another preaching of racism and national hatred is reason for concern. The Latvian Constitutional protection office did not see anything criminal in the campaign," stated the Ministry. The Russian Foreign Ministry believes that the fact that youths were involved in the contest was "cause for special concern." "Russia has on numerous accounts drawn the attention of international organisations towards the dangerous trends in the social life of Latvia. Nevertheless, on every account, an answer followed in stating that everything is fine. The result of such a stance is that at the beginning of the third millennium, a campaign rather smelling of Goebbels could be organised in the very centre of Europe," the Ministry announced. "Latvia's extreme chauvinistic attacks must not remain without reaction form the international society," emphasized Russia. Latvian politicians Latvia’s Way member K.Libane and People’s Party A.Skele think that in Vieda’s case the clear line should be drawn between freedom of speech and kindling of national hatred and that “right protection authorities should have Vieda under direct monitoring”. Meanwhile teenager newspaper “Mana” has announced “The Contest for the Patriots of Latvia” where invites teenagers to hand in essays on the theme “What does It Mean for Me to be Latvian”. The winners will be awarded with Vieda books.

Russia's Foreign Ministry believes that a recent controversial Latvian publishing house essay contest resulting in a book of selected essays should be assessed by international organisations. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Monday that the essay contest is in need of a "clearly stated assessment from aside, first of all from European scale organisations." The Russian Foreign Ministry deems the essay topics as "openly chauvinistic" and "russophobic." "The compilation is overfilled with openly racist and fascist expressions, putting the basis for the next ethnic cleansing into young souls," announced the Russian Foreign Ministry. Authors of the essays published in the book "forbid the Russian speaking population the right to integrate into the Latvian society with equality, according to standards and regulations accepted in modern-day Europe," emphasises the Russian Foreign Ministry. The announcement also states that "we're talking about an open human hatred, russophobic campaign, spread in a country which already has enough problems in the field of human rights and ethnic minority [rights]." "The fact that official institutions did nothing to create barriers for yet another preaching of racism and national hatred is reason for concern. The Latvian Constitutional protection office did not see anything criminal in the campaign," stated the Ministry. The Russian Foreign Ministry believes that the fact that youths were involved in the contest was "cause for special concern." "Russia has on numerous accounts drawn the attention of international organisations towards the dangerous trends in the social life of Latvia. Nevertheless, on every account, an answer followed in stating that everything is fine. The result of such a stance is that at the beginning of the third millennium, a campaign rather smelling of Goebbels could be organised in the very centre of Europe," the Ministry announced. "Latvia's extreme chauvinistic attacks must not remain without reaction form the international society," emphasized Russia. Latvian politicians Latvias Way member K.Libane and Peoples Party A.Skele think that in Viedas case the clear line should be drawn between freedom of speech and kindling of national hatred and that right protection authorities should have Vieda under direct monitoring. Meanwhile teenager newspaper Mana has announced The Contest for the Patriots of Latvia where invites teenagers to hand in essays on the theme What does It Mean for Me to be Latvian. The winners will be awarded with Vieda books. BNS, Diena, Neatkariga, Jauna, Vesti Segodnja.

Vesti Segodnja publishes full version of the press release of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding Vieda book.

Vesti Segodnja publishes full version of the press release of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding Vieda book.

Chas

gives the stance of the welfare minister A.Pozharnovs in the issue regarding recalculation of non-citizens pensions. The minister has come up with the following proposal – before signing the bilateral agreement with Russia on social security, the general agreement on financial issues, covering economical re-evaluation of the historical period, should be signed first. Actually, the minister calls Russia to admit its guilt and pay for the past. In the view of the minister, Russia should pay the residents of Latvia subjected to repression of Soviet regime. gives the stance of the welfare minister A.Pozharnovs in the issue regarding recalculation of non-citizens’ pensions. The minister has come up with the following proposal – before signing the bilateral agreement with Russia on social security, the general agreement on financial issues, covering economical re-evaluation of the historical period, should be signed first. “Actually, the minister calls Russia to admit its guilt and pay for the past. In the view of the minister, Russia should pay the residents of Latvia subjected to repression of Soviet regime”.