LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

Latvijas Vestnesis publishes the interview with the Prime Minister Andris Berzins.

Regarding his promise to change the Election Law and the response of LatviaТs WayТs coalition partners to that the Prime Minister said, УLetТs stop playing hide and seek. If we understand and know our goal then we have to take measures to achieve this goalФ. When asked if the price for NATOТs membership is not too high the Prime Minister says that quite in opposite, because Latvian language will be more secured in the Satversme after the Saeima adopts the draft amendments developed by the ruling parties.

Regarding his promise to change the Election Law and the response of LatviaТs WayТs coalition partners to that the Prime Minister said, УLetТs stop playing hide and seek. If we understand and know our goal then we have to take measures to achieve this goalФ. When asked if the price for NATOТs membership is not too high the Prime Minister says that quite in opposite, because Latvian language will be more secured in the Satversme after the Saeima adopts the draft amendments developed by the ruling parties.

When meeting with the editors of the regional newspapers A.Bзrziтр said that Latvia will not ratify the Framework Convention on the Protection of National Minorities before all European Union states do so. Regarding the Election Law the Premier pointed out that the ruling coalition has already agreed on the necessary amendments to the Constitution and he expressed hope that they would be turned over to the Saeima in the near future. After amending the Constitution, the Election Law could be amended as well, Berzins explained. He also sharply criticized those political forces which are pretending that they do not understand the need to change the Election Law. "Citizens cannot be better and even more better. All citizens must have equal rights," Berzins said, pointing out that "classifying citizens is improper." At the same time, the Prime Minister stressed that deputies must know the Latvian language, predicting that in five to six years the problem would be forgotten and a situation where Latvian language skills are lacking - extraordinary. In the Premier's view, the Election Law should be amended by Prague Summit, November 21. However, it would be good to do it until the meeting of NATO foreign ministries in Reykjavik on May16, in which the NATO expansion matters could be one of the key issues, Berzins admitted

When meeting with the editors of the regional newspapers A.Bзrziтр said that Latvia will not ratify the Framework Convention on the Protection of National Minorities before all European Union states do so. Regarding the Election Law the Premier pointed out that the ruling coalition has already agreed on the necessary amendments to the Constitution and he expressed hope that they would be turned over to the Saeima in the near future. After amending the Constitution, the Election Law could be amended as well, Berzins explained. He also sharply criticized those political forces which are pretending that they do not understand the need to change the Election Law. "Citizens cannot be better and even more better. All citizens must have equal rights," Berzins said, pointing out that "classifying citizens is improper." At the same time, the Prime Minister stressed that deputies must know the Latvian language, predicting that in five to six years the problem would be forgotten and a situation where Latvian language skills are lacking - extraordinary. In the Premier's view, the Election Law should be amended by Prague Summit, November 21. However, it would be good to do it until the meeting of NATO foreign ministries in Reykjavik on May16, in which the NATO expansion matters could be one of the key issues, Berzins admitted. BNS, LETA

Jaunв

publishes considerations of the State President Vaira Vike-Freiberga concerning the Latvian language and NATO. The President believes that NATO does not cause threats to the Latvian language, on the contrary, NATO membership would ensure Latvian residents that they are guaranteed a democratic country and the state language in the long-term future. The President considers that the best measures to strengthen the status of the state language is to provide possibility to study the language, run positive language promoting campaigns, draw positive examples, as well as it is very important that the voters themselves supervises how effectively a deputy can use the state language. publishes considerations of the State President Vaira Vike-Freiberga concerning the Latvian language and NATO. The President believes that NATO does not cause threats to the Latvian language, on the contrary, NATO membership would ensure Latvian residents that they are guaranteed a democratic country and the state language in the long-term future. The President considers that the best measures to strengthen the status of the state language is to provide possibility to study the language, run positive language promoting campaigns, draw positive examples, as well as it is very important that the voters themselves supervises how effectively a deputy can use the state language.

Neatkarоgв

publishes data of the social poll whether Latvian residents feel any kind of discrimination in the country. 80% of the respondents admitted that there is a discrimination on the basis of age and health conditions and more than 60% believe that there is discrimination on ethnic grounds. publishes data of the social poll whether Latvian residents feel any kind of discrimination in the country. 80% of the respondents admitted that there is a discrimination on the basis of age and health conditions and more than 60% believe that there is discrimination on ethnic grounds.

Vecernaya Riga

interviews FHRUL SaeimaТs deputy Miroslav Mitrafanov who is representing DaugavpilТs region. In his opinion, the language issue is not of big importance in Daugavpils, as the city experiences some bigger problems, such as, very high rate of unemployment and poverty. interviews FHRUL SaeimaТs deputy Miroslav Mitrafanov who is representing DaugavpilТs region. In his opinion, the language issue is not of big importance in Daugavpils, as the city experiences some bigger problems, such as, very high rate of unemployment and poverty.

Vesti Segodnja

and and TelegrafTelegraf provide the opinion of Daugavpils City Mayor R.Eigims on the current language situation in the city. Eigims admits that the language situation is not the easy one, however, he rejects the statements that nothing has been done to improve the situation. He also notes that he will not tolerate any language repression and suggests that repression should be replaced with positive measures, such as, allotting more funding from the state budget for Latvian language courses. provide the opinion of Daugavpils City Mayor R.Eigims on the current language situation in the city. Eigims admits that the language situation is not the easy one, however, he rejects the statements that nothing has been done to improve the situation. He also notes that he will not tolerate any language repression and suggests that repression should be replaced with positive measures, such as, allotting more funding from the state budget for Latvian language courses.

Vesti Segodnja

publishes the comments of FHRUL SaeimaТs member Boriss Cilevics on RussiaТs comparison between Latvia and Macedonia. He admits that he is tired of Latvian authorities getting so concerned when Latvia is compared to Macedonia Уit looks like a racism. Why Latvia could not be compared to Macedonia? Both Latvia and Macedonia are candidates for the EU and NATO membership. The only difference is that national minorities in Latvia have not received all their rightsФ. publishes the comments of FHRUL SaeimaТs member Boriss Cilevics on RussiaТs comparison between Latvia and Macedonia. He admits that he is tired of Latvian authorities getting so concerned when Latvia is compared to Macedonia Уit looks like a racism. Why Latvia could not be compared to Macedonia? Both Latvia and Macedonia are candidates for the EU and NATO membership. The only difference is that national minorities in Latvia have not received all their rightsФ. The surviving members of Latvian Nazi Waffen SS unit or the so-called Latvian Legionnaires will not stage their annual procession this year not to threaten the Baltic state's bid for NATO membership. The Latvian Society of National Soldiers, organizing the traditional procession on March 16 every year to commemorate Latvian soldiers, that were forced to serve in Nazi army in World War Two, said there will not be any procession in Riga this year. The procession always causes great commotion in Latvia and abroad, therefore the Latvian Legionnaires will not march through Riga this year to prevent any possible provocations that may undermine Latvia's chances to get admitted to NATO.

The surviving members of Latvian Nazi Waffen SS unit or the so-called Latvian Legionnaires will not stage their annual procession this year not to threaten the Baltic state's bid for NATO membership. The Latvian Society of National Soldiers, organizing the traditional procession on March 16 every year to commemorate Latvian soldiers, that were forced to serve in Nazi army in World War Two, said there will not be any procession in Riga this year. The procession always causes great commotion in Latvia and abroad, therefore the Latvian Legionnaires will not march through Riga this year to prevent any possible provocations that may undermine Latvia's chances to get admitted to NATO. Chas, Telegraf, Panorama Latvii

Panorama Latvii interviews Socialist Party leader Alfreds Rubiks.

Panorama Latvii interviews Socialist Party leader Alfreds Rubiks.

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

Yesterday Latvian high officials President Vaira Vike-Freiberga and Prime Minister Andris Berzins met with visiting U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns and deputy U.S. Undersecretaries of State. Burns commended Latvia's progress, which is quite apparent compared to his previous visit to Latvia five years ago. The U.S. Ambassador to NATO informed the President about visits to NATO applicant countries, stressing that Latvia is a strong candidate state. Whereas Deputy Undersecretary of the U.S. State Department for Eastern Europe Heather Conley extended compliments from the U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell on the Latvian President’s successful visit to the U.S.Amendments to the Election Law, which would lift language restrictions for candidates for Saeima and

Yesterday Latvian high officials President Vaira Vike-Freiberga and Prime Minister Andris Berzins met with visiting U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns and deputy U.S. Undersecretaries of State. Burns commended Latvia's progress, which is quite apparent compared to his previous visit to Latvia five years ago. The U.S. Ambassador to NATO informed the President about visits to NATO applicant countries, stressing that Latvia is a strong candidate state. Whereas Deputy Undersecretary of the U.S. State Department for Eastern Europe Heather Conley extended compliments from the U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell on the Latvian Presidents successful visit to the U.S.Amendments to the Election Law, which would lift language restrictions for candidates for Saeima and

After a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns Prime Minister Andris Berzins said that the amendments to the Election Law, which would lift language restrictions for candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies, would be passed by November in Latvia, before the NATO Summit in Prague. The Premier told the Ambassador that the government’s coalition parties had arrived at such an agreement. Burns repeatedly expressed the United States’ support for Latvia’s membership in NATO, in his meetings with others Latvia’s top officials.

After a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns Prime Minister Andris Berzins said that the amendments to the Election Law, which would lift language restrictions for candidates for Saeima and municipal deputies, would be passed by November in Latvia, before the NATO Summit in Prague. The Premier told the Ambassador that the governments coalition parties had arrived at such an agreement. Burns repeatedly expressed the United States support for Latvias membership in NATO, in his meetings with others Latvias top officials. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas

Also visiting Latvia and meeting with top government officials yesterday was the UK Defense Secretary Geoffrey Hoon. He accented that his nation lauds Latvia’s movements so far in its accession move to the North Atlantic alliance. London wants to see Latvia as a NATO member, said Hoon. He also noted that the amendments to the Election Law are a matter of Latvia's internal affairs but it is nonetheless very important to NATO that Latvia complies with the requirements for democratic countries.

Also visiting Latvia and meeting with top government officials yesterday was the UK Defense Secretary Geoffrey Hoon. He accented that his nation lauds Latvias movements so far in its accession move to the North Atlantic alliance. London wants to see Latvia as a NATO member, said Hoon. He also noted that the amendments to the Election Law are a matter of Latvia's internal affairs but it is nonetheless very important to NATO that Latvia complies with the requirements for democratic countries. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas

Latvia’s delegation head to NATO PA Aleksandrs Kirsteins informs about the chapters in NATO’s Report on Enlargement discussing Latvia. Kirsteins informs about the general key criteria according to which the countries are assessed for their readiness to be invited to NATO. He names Latvia’s positive achievements included in this report, as well as he provides the following objections against Latvia’s NATO membership: “1) Russia’s rights in neighboring countries and NATO intervention in this territory; 2) unwillingness of Russia to determine the border line with Latvia and Estonia; 3) mixed body of the residents with more than 500 000 non-citizens and 17 000 Russian citizens; 4) high number of retired Soviet military officers and KGB agents; 5) big crowds of suspicious, hopeless and frustrated Russians.” Kirsteins also points out that these were also “the main reasons why not only Germany, but also UK, the Netherlands and Canada objected the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia at the end of the year”. Kirsteins concludes, “Let’s hope we will be invited to join NATO with the support of the USA and Nordic countries”.

Latvias delegation head to NATO PA Aleksandrs Kirsteins informs about the chapters in NATOs Report on Enlargement discussing Latvia. Kirsteins informs about the general key criteria according to which the countries are assessed for their readiness to be invited to NATO. He names Latvias positive achievements included in this report, as well as he provides the following objections against Latvias NATO membership: 1) Russias rights in neighboring countries and NATO intervention in this territory; 2) unwillingness of Russia to determine the border line with Latvia and Estonia; 3) mixed body of the residents with more than 500 000 non-citizens and 17 000 Russian citizens; 4) high number of retired Soviet military officers and KGB agents; 5) big crowds of suspicious, hopeless and frustrated Russians. Kirsteins also points out that these were also the main reasons why not only Germany, but also UK, the Netherlands and Canada objected the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia at the end of the year. Kirsteins concludes, Lets hope we will be invited to join NATO with the support of the USA and Nordic countries. Diena

PCTVL-supported officials to head Riga City Council’s offices in Latgale and Kurzeme districts. After heated debate for about one hour yesterday, the Riga City Council replaced two Riga City Council’s executive directors in the city’s districts. PCTVL’s supporters Dmitrijs Pavlovs and Jelena Baumane replaced the former executive directors for Riga’s Latgale and Kurzeme districts, Guntis Grinbergs (LSDSP) and Janis Avenins (Labor Party).

PCTVL-supported officials to head Riga City Councils offices in Latgale and Kurzeme districts. After heated debate for about one hour yesterday, the Riga City Council replaced two Riga City Councils executive directors in the citys districts. PCTVLs supporters Dmitrijs Pavlovs and Jelena Baumane replaced the former executive directors for Rigas Latgale and Kurzeme districts, Guntis Grinbergs (LSDSP) and Janis Avenins (Labor Party). Diena stresses this is the first time when the Riga City Councils majority so openly wields its political power by appointing its own people in executive posts and links this with upcoming Saiema elections, as these officials will be responsible for issuing the permits for different political activities. Previously, the majoritys influence was realized with the help of municipal proxies. Neatkariga says, quoting an unofficial source, that more Riga districts leaders will be replaced next week. Diena, Neatkariga, Chas, Telegraf, Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii

The Russia’s newspaper

The Russias newspaper Komersant Dengi is still advertising the opportunity to buy Baltic states and French citizenship, although pointing out that currently problems with Latvian citizenship have arisen and it is not available at this time. As the newspaper "Neatkariga Rita Avize" reports today, Latvian law enforcement institutions have declined to comment on the situation, providing no information on whether the information in "Komersant Dengi" is connected to the recent arrests of dealers in citizenship in Latvia.

Chas

editorial is looking into the issue concerning Latvias Russian language press. The columnist Fedoseyev rejects the acquisitions that press in Russian do not protect the interests of national minorities. He reasons that stating that the audiences of Russian newspapers are the only source of income for these newspapers and if these newspapers are not writing about the problems and concerns of their audiences they would go bankrupt immediately. He also believes that any attempts of the authorities to create loyal Russian newspaper will fail and the situation will not change till these authorities will start a fair dialogue with non-Latvians with the help of the same non-loyal Russian means of mass media. editorial is looking into the issue concerning Latvia’s Russian language press. The columnist Fedoseyev rejects the acquisitions that press in Russian do not protect the interests of national minorities. He reasons that stating that the audiences of Russian newspapers are the only source of income for these newspapers and if these newspapers are not writing about the problems and concerns of their audiences they would go bankrupt immediately. He also believes that any attempts of the authorities to create “loyal Russian newspaper” will fail and the situation will not change till “these authorities will start a fair dialogue with non-Latvians with the help of the same “non-loyal” Russian means of mass media”.

Chas

writes about the role of the USA in Latvias way towards NATO. The newspaper notes that the USA has always voiced its support to the Baltic States membership to NATO and points out that Latvia has uzcitigi fulfilled different USA requirements, such as, letting ships with nuclear weapons on their board to enter Latvian ports. Latvian politicians believed that because of these concessions, the USA and Brussels would close the eyes on the flaws in Latvian legislation concerning the rights of non-Latvians. writes about the role of the USA in Latvia’s way towards NATO. The newspaper notes that the USA has always voiced its support to the Baltic States’ membership to NATO and points out that Latvia has uzcitigi fulfilled different USA requirements, such as, letting ships with nuclear weapons on their board to enter Latvian ports. “Latvian politicians believed that because of these concessions, the USA and Brussels would close the eyes on the flaws in Latvian legislation concerning the rights of non-Latvians.” ChasChas concludes that now Latvia has two options whether to provide rights to non-Latvians or forget about NATO. concludes that now Latvia has two options whether to provide rights to non-Latvians or forget about NATO.

Vesti Segodnja

writes about Peoples Partys activities concerning language issue, in particular about discussions and articles in Partys latest newspaper issue. writes about People’s Party’s activities concerning language issue, in particular about discussions and articles in Party’s latest newspaper issue. VestiVesti SegodnjaSegodnja concludes that Peoples Party has decided to work with nationalistic electorate, as the Party did not make a big success in economical and social spheres. concludes that People’s Party has decided to work with nationalistic electorate, as the Party did not make a big success in economical and social spheres.

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns begins an official visit in Latvia today. During the visit, he will hold meetings with Latvia's top officials. The goal of Burns's diplomatic visit is to held a "very open discussion" in order to show the governments what they must accomplish before the NATO Summit in Prague in November. Another goal is to give the governments a chance to work out effective long-term action plans to prepare for NATO membership.

U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns begins an official visit in Latvia today. During the visit, he will hold meetings with Latvia's top officials. The goal of Burns's diplomatic visit is to held a "very open discussion" in order to show the governments what they must accomplish before the NATO Summit in Prague in November. Another goal is to give the governments a chance to work out effective long-term action plans to prepare for NATO membership. Chas, Panorama Latvii

One or several persons describing themselves as "young communists" have assumed responsibility over the last week's blast outside the Citizenship and Migration Affairs Department in Riga and demand Russian language be granted status of state language as well as legalization of Communist Party. The security police would check on the case and exert all efforts to find authors of the letter.

One or several persons describing themselves as "young communists" have assumed responsibility over the last week's blast outside the Citizenship and Migration Affairs Department in Riga and demand Russian language be granted status of state language as well as legalization of Communist Party. The security police would check on the case and exert all efforts to find authors of the letter. Diena

Today’s all newspapers devote attention to the problems, in particular concerning language, of the second biggest Latvian city Daugavpils. People’s Party invited State Language Center director Dzintra Hirsa and Daugavpil’s language inspector to discuss the language situation in the city. People’s Party concluded that although the State Language Center is short of language inspectors it should not be considered the reason for bad situation in this area. “The Center needs to better administrative work and distribution of jobs”, believes People’s Party. The language inspector responsible for Daugavpil’s and Kraslava region is assigned to follow the work of Daugavpils City Council more closely.

Todays all newspapers devote attention to the problems, in particular concerning language, of the second biggest Latvian city Daugavpils. Peoples Party invited State Language Center director Dzintra Hirsa and Daugavpils language inspector to discuss the language situation in the city. Peoples Party concluded that although the State Language Center is short of language inspectors it should not be considered the reason for bad situation in this area. The Center needs to better administrative work and distribution of jobs, believes Peoples Party. The language inspector responsible for Daugavpils and Kraslava region is assigned to follow the work of Daugavpils City Council more closely. Diena,Lauku Avize, Chas, Telegraf, Panorama Latvii

Vesti Segodnja writes that very soon the delegation of the members of the State Language Commission headed by chairperson Mara Zalite will visit Daugavpils. The newspaper inquires Daugavpils’ local people and FHRUL members regarding the language situation in the city. All of them believe that the issue has been politicized and that actual language environment in Daugavpils is improving.

Vesti Segodnja writes that very soon the delegation of the members of the State Language Commission headed by chairperson Mara Zalite will visit Daugavpils. The newspaper inquires Daugavpils local people and FHRUL members regarding the language situation in the city. All of them believe that the issue has been politicized and that actual language environment in Daugavpils is improving.

Two recent incidents when two girls from Daugavpils voiced publicly their protest against NATO incited

Two recent incidents when two girls from Daugavpils voiced publicly their protest against NATO incited Dienas journalist to write about the views of Daugavpils Russian students about Latvia. The inquired students said although they disapprove the actions of two girls, however, they also disapprove Latvias membership to the EU and NATO. They also admitted that they lack information and a possibility to discuss these issues.

British newspaper

British newspaper The Times writes that the Baltic States are the favorites of the USA on their way to NATO. The newspaper also notes that the possible favorable position of the Baltic States in Washington D.C have caused dissatisfaction of other NATO member states diplomats. Diena, Neatkariga, Lauku Avize

Lauku Avize

inquires Latvian politicians about NATO Secretary General G.Robertsons visit to Latvia. FF/LNNK member Dz.Rasnacs says, George Robertson did not indicated very clearly that Latvia has to amend the Election Law. He referred that actually it is Presidents initiative and that he supports it. Rasnacs also believes that this issue will no be crucial when Latvias possible membership to NATO is discussed. Latvias Way member Valdis Birkavs and Peoples Party member Vaira Paegle say that Lord Robertson did not come up with any new statements, but both deputies noted Robertsons statement that Latvia can expect new requirements. inquires Latvian politicians about NATO Secretary General G.Robertson’s visit to Latvia. FF/LNNK member Dz.Rasnacs says, “George Robertson did not indicated very clearly that Latvia has to amend the Election Law. He referred that actually it is President’s initiative and that he supports it”. Rasnacs also believes that this issue will no be crucial when Latvia’s possible membership to NATO is discussed. Latvia’s Way member Valdis Birkavs and People’s Party member Vaira Paegle say that Lord Robertson did not come up with any new statements, but both deputies noted Robertson’s statement that Latvia can expect new requirements.

Lauku Avizes

Board member Voldemars Krustins when commenting George Robertsons visit to Latvia writes that politicians have to inform public about the price Latvia will pay for NATO membership and he concludes lets amend our laws reasonably, get into NATO and the EU and when we are there we will take care of ourselves". Board member Voldemars Krustins when commenting George Robertson’s visit to Latvia writes that politicians have to inform public about “the price Latvia will pay for NATO membership” and he concludes “let’s amend our laws reasonably, get into NATO and the EU and when we are there we will take care of ourselves".

Lauku Avize

interviews Constitution Court Chairperson Aivars Endzins. First, Aivars Endzinsreports on the amendments Latvia has to introduce concerning its membership to the EU. The second part of the interview is devoted to the widely discussed amendments to the Election Law. He says Article 4 of the Constitution already provides for that the Latvian language is the state language in Latvia. It is disputable issue should it be necessary to add anything else to this article. Also Saeimas Rules of Order provide for that the Latvian language is the working language of the Saeima. Regarding the amendments to the Election Law the Chairperson believes that language requirement for election candidates should not be lifted. interviews Constitution Court Chairperson Aivars Endzins. First, Aivars Endzins reports on the amendments Latvia has to introduce concerning its membership to the EU. The second part of the interview is devoted to the widely discussed amendments to the Election Law. He says “Article 4 of the Constitution already provides for that the Latvian language is the state language in Latvia. It is disputable issue should it be necessary to add anything else to this article. Also Saeima’s Rules of Order provide for that the Latvian language is the working language of the Saeima”. Regarding the amendments to the Election Law the Chairperson believes that language requirement for election candidates should not be lifted.

Lauku Avize

gives summary of two cases – Sisojevi and Kolosovska - from Latvia with the European Court of Human Rights. gives summary of two cases – Sisojevi and Kolosovska - from Latvia with the European Court of Human Rights. FF/LNNK chairperson Maris Grinblats informs

FF/LNNK chairperson Maris Grinblats informs Rigas Balss about the draft amendments to the Constitution in order to secure the status of the state language. The amendments are planned to be considered by the Saeima already at the beginning of March. One of the key amendments is that only Latvian citizens can have rights to participate at municipal elections. Grinblats comments that the EU has not set the requirement that non-citizens should have rights to vote and run for the seats in municipalities. If such requirements are set then they would be rejected, because they are unacceptable in Latvias situation.

According to the draft of national standard the number of Russian literature classes at Russian schools will be reduced as of the new academic year. Teachers from Russian schools strictly oppose the project.

According to the draft of national standard the number of Russian literature classes at Russian schools will be reduced as of the new academic year. Teachers from Russian schools strictly oppose the project. Vecernaya Riga

FHRUL Saeima’s member Jakov Pliner writes about the results of the research conducted by the group of independent experts concerning the situation in bilingual education in Latvia. He provides the conclusions of the group of the experts and believes that there are three further development directions: first, continue education in mother tongue, second, improve Latvian language learning programs, and third, gradually, according to one’s will, introduce bilingual education.

FHRUL Saeimas member Jakov Pliner writes about the results of the research conducted by the group of independent experts concerning the situation in bilingual education in Latvia. He provides the conclusions of the group of the experts and believes that there are three further development directions: first, continue education in mother tongue, second, improve Latvian language learning programs, and third, gradually, according to ones will, introduce bilingual education. Chas

PRESS REVIEW

U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns is visiting Latvia today and tomorrow, February 26, LETA learned at the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

U.S. Ambassador to NATO Nicholas Burns is visiting Latvia today and tomorrow, February 26, LETA learned at the Foreign Affairs Ministry. LETA

Political analyst Janis Ikstens speaks on the make-up of the next Saeima in an interview in NRA. Ikstens believes that next Saeima will be more fragmented. "Besides, the politicians that will win in October will be able to say ahead of the 2006 elections: we were the ones, who achieved Latvia’s entry into NATO and EU," says Ikstens.

Political analyst Janis Ikstens speaks on the make-up of the next Saeima in an interview in NRA. Ikstens believes that next Saeima will be more fragmented. "Besides, the politicians that will win in October will be able to say ahead of the 2006 elections: we were the ones, who achieved Latvias entry into NATO and EU," says Ikstens. Neatkariga

About 8000 people responded to the opinion poll organized by FF/LNNK. Questionnaires with questions whether Saeima and local government deputies should know the Latvian language were published in two Latvian newspapers. Almost all answers were positive. This makes one to conclude that FF/LNNK intends to keep its image as a national party and the electorate.

Diena To learn about experience in preparing and issuing ID cards in Estonia, head of DCMA M.Bicevskis went there. First ID cards in Estonia were issued 28 January 2002.

To learn about experience in preparing and issuing ID cards in Estonia, head of DCMA M.Bicevskis went there. First ID cards in Estonia were issued 28 January 2002. Neatkariga

Answering to questions of Latvian journalists whether there should be expected any new demands for Latvia, NATO Secretary General G.Robertson said that there was no prepared list of demands. They follow the development of situation here and see that the society becomes more consolidated. They are satisfied with the present situation, but democracy is developing and he may not promise that there might not appear new recommendations.

Answering to questions of Latvian journalists whether there should be expected any new demands for Latvia, NATO Secretary General G.Robertson said that there was no prepared list of demands. They follow the development of situation here and see that the society becomes more consolidated. They are satisfied with the present situation, but democracy is developing and he may not promise that there might not appear new recommendations. Telegraf

Newspaper Telegraf commenting the situation after adoption the new citizenship law in Russia, cites FF/LNNK representative J.Vidins, who said that Russia’s citizenship policy was contradicting the call of Russian President V.Putin to compatriots to return to Russia. If these people return they will become Russian citizens only after 5 years and only after that they will be able to receive pension.

Newspaper Telegraf commenting the situation after adoption the new citizenship law in Russia, cites FF/LNNK representative J.Vidins, who said that Russias citizenship policy was contradicting the call of Russian President V.Putin to compatriots to return to Russia. If these people return they will become Russian citizens only after 5 years and only after that they will be able to receive pension. Telegraf

There are nine months left until Latvia might be invited to join NATO. Now Latvian authorities have to rush to solve the “Russian issue”. Otherwise there will be no time “to kill those bastards”. The newspaper already wrote about the solemn pledge for Russian-speaking deputies, but simple Russian people would be treated differently, They will be just “mochitj” (slang word for “to slaughter”). And they will start in Daugavpils where the Russian language is used the most.

There are nine months left until Latvia might be invited to join NATO. Now Latvian authorities have to rush to solve the Russian issue. Otherwise there will be no time to kill those bastards. The newspaper already wrote about the solemn pledge for Russian-speaking deputies, but simple Russian people would be treated differently, They will be just mochitj (slang word for to slaughter). And they will start in Daugavpils where the Russian language is used the most. Vesti Segodnya

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Soviet Latvian republic N.Neilans thinks that the statement made by G.Robertson concerning the link between amending the election laws and Latvia’s joining NATO should not be taken as an ultimatum. Still the Secretary General of NATO told Latvian authorities about democratic values observed in NATO. And NATO has to compare with e.g. Estonia. Estonians did not receive any ultimatum, they themselves solved the language problems, allowed foreigners to vote in local government elections, etc.

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Soviet Latvian republic N.Neilans thinks that the statement made by G.Robertson concerning the link between amending the election laws and Latvias joining NATO should not be taken as an ultimatum. Still the Secretary General of NATO told Latvian authorities about democratic values observed in NATO. And NATO has to compare with e.g. Estonia. Estonians did not receive any ultimatum, they themselves solved the language problems, allowed foreigners to vote in local government elections, etc. Chas

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

Latvia's seaside resort town Jurmala will be staging a conference from May 30 to June 1 called "The World in 2002. Worries and Hopes" organized by Baltijas Forums (the Baltic Forum), participated by scientists and political scientists form Latvia, Russia, Estonia, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and the U.S. The conference will be discussing the new economic situation in the world after the tragic events of September 11 last year, and the change this has made on the Baltic Sea region, reported Baltijas Forums. President of Baltijas Forums, Nikolajs Neilands, said that the events in the U.S last September made the world change and face a common enemy - terrorism, adding that one of the main topics for the conference will be Russian-U.S. relations.

Latvia's seaside resort town Jurmala will be staging a conference from May 30 to June 1 called "The World in 2002. Worries and Hopes" organized by Baltijas Forums (the Baltic Forum), participated by scientists and political scientists form Latvia, Russia, Estonia, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and the U.S. The conference will be discussing the new economic situation in the world after the tragic events of September 11 last year, and the change this has made on the Baltic Sea region, reported Baltijas Forums. President of Baltijas Forums, Nikolajs Neilands, said that the events in the U.S last September made the world change and face a common enemy - terrorism, adding that one of the main topics for the conference will be Russian-U.S. relations. BNS

Russia has once again voiced its objections to closure of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) missions in Latvia and Estonia, reported a Latvian daily,

Russia has once again voiced its objections to closure of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) missions in Latvia and Estonia, reported a Latvian daily, Diena. Speaking at the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Vienna this week, Russian State Duma chairman Gennady Seleznev objected to technical closure of OSCE missions in Latvia and Estonia without the Permanent Council resolution approving of the move. Seleznev, who heads the Russian parliamentary delegation to OSCE, claimed there were "human rights problems still unsolved in both countries." Seleznev also expressed hope that the Permanent Council, the key decision-making body within the OSCE, would soon find a way to adopt a resolution about extending mandates of OSCE missions to Latvia and Estonia.

Diena

commentator A.Ozolins states sarcastically that language politicians got what they wanted – a clear NATO or EU statement that Latvias joining these organizations is linked with abolishing the language proficiency norms. commentator A.Ozolins states sarcastically that language politicians got what they wanted – a clear NATO or EU statement that Latvia’s joining these organizations is linked with abolishing the language proficiency norms. Russia does not wish to intervene in NATO's sovereignty, NATO Secretary General George Robertson said in an interview to the newspaper "

Russia does not wish to intervene in NATO's sovereignty, NATO Secretary General George Robertson said in an interview to the newspaper "Lauku Avize". According to Robertson, he has concluded after his meetings with the Russian president and other officials that Russia will not put obstacles when NATO adopts its own decisions. NATO candidate states still have much to do in order to attain the high military and political standards of NATO, Robertson said in commenting on possible requirements for Latvia prior its entry into NATO. Robertson and NATO must be confident that defense is being allotted sufficient financing, and that Latvia will contribute to common security, not only benefit from it, Robertson said.

Delegation of the Moscow City Duma today concludes its official visit in Riga. During the visit, Moscow City Duma Chairman Vladimir Platonov and Riga City Council Chairman, Mayor Gundars Bojars signed an agreement protocol on Friday (February 22) that sets future cooperation in several stages. The Riga city council reported that the protocol was signed with both sides expressing their desire to facilitate the development and the strengthening of Latvian-Russian relations, devoting primary attention to the development of partner relations between both capitals based on the principles of equality and mutual admiration.

Delegation of the Moscow City Duma today concludes its official visit in Riga. During the visit, Moscow City Duma Chairman Vladimir Platonov and Riga City Council Chairman, Mayor Gundars Bojars signed an agreement protocol on Friday (February 22) that sets future cooperation in several stages. The Riga city council reported that the protocol was signed with both sides expressing their desire to facilitate the development and the strengthening of Latvian-Russian relations, devoting primary attention to the development of partner relations between both capitals based on the principles of equality and mutual admiration. LETA

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga forwarded the open letter of Daugavpils society concerning state language violations in this city asking the Mayer to inform about the situation there. The open letter was forwarded also to the Saeima Speaker and State Language Center.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga forwarded the open letter of Daugavpils society concerning state language violations in this city asking the Mayer to inform about the situation there. The open letter was forwarded also to the Saeima Speaker and State Language Center. Diena

Newspaper

Newspaper Lauku Avize published the full text of this open letter

Chas calls it a language attack on Daugavpils.

Council of government forming coalition agreed yesterday on amending 4 articles in the constitution – 18, 21, 101 and 104. Amendments in Article 18 stipulate that in the solemn pledge of a deputy is included a norm on protecting the Latvian language , Article 21 stipulates that working language of the Saeima is Latvian. Amendments in Article 101 envisage that local governments are elected by citizens and working language there is Latvian. In its turn amendments in Article 104 provide that everybody has the right to address state and local government institutions and receive an answer in the Latvian language.

Council of government forming coalition agreed yesterday on amending 4 articles in the constitution – 18, 21, 101 and 104. Amendments in Article 18 stipulate that in the solemn pledge of a deputy is included a norm on protecting the Latvian language , Article 21 stipulates that working language of the Saeima is Latvian. Amendments in Article 101 envisage that local governments are elected by citizens and working language there is Latvian. In its turn amendments in Article 104 provide that everybody has the right to address state and local government institutions and receive an answer in the Latvian language. Neatkariga, Chas

Newspaper

Newspaper Lauku Avize interviewed Latvian Ambassador to the USA A.Ronis after his repot to the Saeima Foreign, Defense and Interior Affairs Commission. According to A.Ronis MPs wanted to find out what was the US opinion on amending the election laws and how this opinion had formed.

In an Interview to the Latvian newspaper

In an Interview to the Latvian newspaper Jauna Avize Russian Ambassador I.Studennikov among other things spoke about problem issues in Latvia. One of them is the attitude towards the Russian language. He is worried about the fate of non-citizens in Latvia. The Ambassador called to simplify the Naturalization procedure let more non-citizens could receive Latvian citizenship.

Yesterday the Integration Foundation received 10 applications from companies that are ready to organize Latvian language training courses for to-be citizens. For this purpose the Foundation has allotted 32 000 LVL.

Yesterday the Integration Foundation received 10 applications from companies that are ready to organize Latvian language training courses for to-be citizens. For this purpose the Foundation has allotted 32 000 LVL. Chas

Internal investigation was completed at the Naturalization Board. Head of the Board E.Aldermane told journalists about the findings and the proposals of the investigation commission. The conclusion is that it is almost impossible to “help an inside man” during examinations, the weak point is the so-called “human factor”. And it seems that dishonest applicants most likely have been cheated. But a consequence of this scandal is that FF/LNNK is after the head of E.Aldermane – they wand her dismissal.

Internal investigation was completed at the Naturalization Board. Head of the Board E.Aldermane told journalists about the findings and the proposals of the investigation commission. The conclusion is that it is almost impossible to help an inside man during examinations, the weak point is the so-called human factor. And it seems that dishonest applicants most likely have been cheated. But a consequence of this scandal is that FF/LNNK is after the head of E.Aldermane – they wand her dismissal.

To protest against the slow procedure of issuing certificates of return several illegal immigrants kept in Olaine Illegal Immigrants Camp went on a hunger strike.

To protest against the slow procedure of issuing certificates of return several illegal immigrants kept in Olaine Illegal Immigrants Camp went on a hunger strike. Vesti Segodnya, Neatkariga (25.02)