LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

Speaking at the plenary meeting of Latvia University scientific conference Monday, Latvian Foreign Affairs Minister Berzins said that one of the key principles for the future EU should be the idea of equal partners "where interests of large and small, old and newly-admitted members carry the same weight," where "national peculiarities of each member state are important and taken into consideration."

Speaking at the plenary meeting of Latvia University scientific conference Monday, Latvian Foreign Affairs Minister Berzins said that one of the key principles for the future EU should be the idea of equal partners "where interests of large and small, old and newly-admitted members carry the same weight," where "national peculiarities of each member state are important and taken into consideration."

The Minister also referred to the very topical issue, assuring that “giving up language proficiency requirement under the Latvian election laws while strengthening the state language under other laws will not harm Latvia's interests”. "The Latvian language has by no means to be sacrificed on the altar of our foreign policy interests because protecting and developing the language is in no way contradictory to Latvia's foreign policy," said the foreign minister. He said he hoped Latvia could defend the Latvian language interests well also "after giving up a disputable provision under elections laws."

The Minister also referred to the very topical issue, assuring that giving up language proficiency requirement under the Latvian election laws while strengthening the state language under other laws will not harm Latvia's interests. "The Latvian language has by no means to be sacrificed on the altar of our foreign policy interests because protecting and developing the language is in no way contradictory to Latvia's foreign policy," said the foreign minister. He said he hoped Latvia could defend the Latvian language interests well also "after giving up a disputable provision under elections laws." Vesti Segodnja, Diena

USA Ambassador Brian Carlson and USA Howard University professor, political scientist Michael Fraser took part in the discussion on Civic Rights and Equality in the USA organized by Latvian Journalist Association.

USA Ambassador Brian Carlson and USA Howard University professor, political scientist Michael Fraser took part in the discussion on Civic Rights and Equality in the USA organized by Latvian Journalist Association. Latvijas Vestnesis asked the opinion of political scientist Fraser concerning the requirement of the USA State Department for Latvia to amend its election laws. Professor gives his personal opinion and compares the situation with a family where very often the members of a family have to yield to each other even without getting the desired in return.

Lauku Avize

inquires MPs whether deputies speak Russian in the sittings and sessions of Saeima committees. All inquired deputies representing both left and right wings assured that they have not heard anybody speaking other languages but Latvian at Saeima Committees sittings and sessions. inquires MPs whether deputies speak Russian in the sittings and sessions of Saeima committees. All inquired deputies representing both left and right wings assured that they have not heard anybody speaking other languages but Latvian at Saeima Committees’ sittings and sessions. If the Cabinet of Ministers backs the proposed Cabinet's Rules of Procedure, the distribution of documents within the government will be changed, and the people will take a more active part in decision making. "The Cabinet's Rules of Procedure allow society for the first time, in fact, to directly influence the process of decisions approved by the Cabinet," told the State Chancellery's director Gunta Veismane.

If the Cabinet of Ministers backs the proposed Cabinet's Rules of Procedure, the distribution of documents within the government will be changed, and the people will take a more active part in decision making. "The Cabinet's Rules of Procedure allow society for the first time, in fact, to directly influence the process of decisions approved by the Cabinet," told the State Chancellery's director Gunta Veismane.

The draft Rules of Procedure for the Cabinet envisage several substantial changes - status of state secretaries’ meeting will be promoted, the rules also specify the procedure for developing claims on the budget and foresee that society be reported on time about working out bills of vital importance to residents.

The draft Rules of Procedure for the Cabinet envisage several substantial changes - status of state secretaries meeting will be promoted, the rules also specify the procedure for developing claims on the budget and foresee that society be reported on time about working out bills of vital importance to residents. Diena, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja, Chas

Lauku Avize

publishes article under the headline Whose Recommendations We Are Listening to. In the article the information is provided about OSCE HCNM Raulf Ekeus background and activities. publishes article under the headline “Whose Recommendations We Are Listening to”. In the article the information is provided about OSCE HCNM Raulf Ekeus’ background and activities. Lauku AvizeLauku Avize quotes Latvian journalist Veinberga residing in Sweden Lately rhetoric of the supporters of requirements is based on the statements of odious western politicians who rather openly support Moscows ideas. The newspaper writes that the OSCE Mission to Latvia is closed, however, high commissioners can be satisfied as the Latvians adopted the Language and Citizenship Law taking into account the OSCE recommendations. We accepted these recommendations without any objections, like a dictate. quotes Latvian journalist Veinberga residing in Sweden “Lately rhetoric of the supporters of requirements is based on the statements of odious western politicians who rather openly support Moscow’s ideas”. The newspaper writes that the OSCE Mission to Latvia is closed, however, “high commissioners can be satisfied as the Latvians adopted the Language and Citizenship Law taking into account the OSCE recommendations. We accepted these recommendations without any objections, like a dictate.”

Vecernaja Riga

writes about discrimination on ethnic basis in Latvia and provides the views of political scientist Artis Pabriks on the issue. Pabriks believes that one of the problems is that Russian-speakers have low representation at state and municipal institutions and that the number of Russian-speakers working for governmental institutions should be increased thus their trust in this country would raise, too. writes about discrimination on ethnic basis in Latvia and provides the views of political scientist Artis Pabriks on the issue. Pabriks believes that one of the problems is that Russian-speakers have low representation at state and municipal institutions and that the number of Russian-speakers working for governmental institutions should be increased thus their trust in this country would raise, too. Former Consul of Honor of Latvia in Chicago Klaucçns responds to USA Ambassador to Latvia Carlson’s open letter concerning the abolishment of language requirement for election candidates published in

Former Consul of Honor of Latvia in Chicago Klaucçns responds to USA Ambassador to Latvia Carlsons open letter concerning the abolishment of language requirement for election candidates published in Lauku Avize. Klaucens asks to look at the history of Latvia objectively when the USA, EU and NATO are building relationship with Latvia. In his opinion, the Latvians and not the Russians are under threat in Latvia. Jauna

Chas

gives its speculations about the meetings of the Latvian President with high USA officials in Washington D.C. The newspaper does not exclude the possibility that suddenly also the USA President G.Bush could join the Latvian Presidents meeting with U.S. Vice President Richard Cheney and U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, however, the newspaper considers that the lower level of Latvian Presidents visit is due to Latvias problems with non-citizens and language. gives its speculations about the meetings of the Latvian President with high USA officials in Washington D.C. The newspaper does not exclude the possibility that suddenly also the USA President G.Bush could join the Latvian President’s meeting with U.S. Vice President Richard Cheney and U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, however, the newspaper considers that the lower level of Latvian President’s visit is due to Latvia’s problems with non-citizens and language.

Vesti Segodnja

interviews Latvian Foreign Policy Institution director Atis Lejins. He thinks, the USA acted not very nice towards us regarding the Election Law. They know very well how sensitive this issue is for us. Why did they have to tackle this issue exactly this year when we are having parliamentary election?. However, he believes that Latvia should amend the Election Law for the sake of NATOs membership. He also refers to the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia and emphasizes that although there were couple European countries, which were against the closure, the USA and Sweden supported the closure. Lejins believes that the Latvia can rely on the support of the Americans on its way to NATO. When asked about the situation concerning the Latvian language usage in the country, he says that he sees positive tendencies and developments. interviews Latvian Foreign Policy Institution director Atis Lejins. He thinks, “the USA acted not very nice towards us regarding the Election Law. They know very well how sensitive this issue is for us. Why did they have to tackle this issue exactly this year when we are having parliamentary election?”. However, he believes that Latvia should amend the Election Law for the sake of NATO’s membership. He also refers to the closure of the OSCE Mission to Latvia and emphasizes that although there were couple European countries, which were against the closure, the USA and Sweden supported the closure. Lejins believes that the Latvia can rely on the support of the Americans on its way to NATO. When asked about the situation concerning the Latvian language usage in the country, he says that he sees positive tendencies and developments.

Telegraf

publishes the article about integration by Y.Abizov. He sees integration in Latvia as a big mechanism with many people working for it, however, this mechanism is running idle. In his opinion integration in Latvia is perceived as simply giving up ones nationality, culture and taking over Latvian culture, traditions and language. publishes the article about integration by Y.Abizov. He sees integration in Latvia as a big mechanism with many people working for it, however, this mechanism is “running idle”. In his opinion integration in Latvia is perceived as simply giving up one’s nationality, culture and taking over Latvian culture, traditions and language.

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

The Baltic states are knocking at the NATO door, and it is our task not to let them in, essayist and commentator Jeffrey Tayler says in his article "The Next Threat to NATO", which was published in the fresh issue of "The Atlantic Monthly". “Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have been clamoring for admission to NATO - and the Bush administration appears receptive," writes Tayler, calling it a terrible idea.

The Baltic states are knocking at the NATO door, and it is our task not to let them in, essayist and commentator Jeffrey Tayler says in his article "The Next Threat to NATO", which was published in the fresh issue of "The Atlantic Monthly". Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have been clamoring for admission to NATO - and the Bush administration appears receptive," writes Tayler, calling it a terrible idea. Neatkariga, Lauku Avize, LETA

249 participants of the founding congress of the democratic right-wing political party "Jaunais laiks" (New Era, JL) unanimously voted for establishing the party. Einars Repse pledged in his address at the congress that as soon as NE comes to power, restoration of welfare will begin in Latvia, honest businessmen will be guaranteed support of the state, residents - welfare and security, he also pledged the party would fight corruption and drug dealership. Repse said that dishonest and unprofessional politicians, corrupt and thieving public servants are guilty of the state of disorder in Latvia, as a result, the state cannot ensure that the law is observed, neither can it guarantee welfare and security to residents.

Einars Repse was elected the head of the political party New Era during the party's founding congress today with 242 out of 245 votes. Repse was the only candidate for the post.

Diena, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja, Chas, Panorama Latvii, Telegraf During the meetings with high USA State Department, National Security Department and NATO Committee officials Saeima Vice-Speaker Rihards Pîks was told that Latvia itself should not destroy its perspectives to become NATO member state already this year and accomplish its home tasks among which is the abolishment of language requirement for election candidates. Rihards Pîks also mentions that “this is not the secret that OSCE Mission to Latvia was closed thanks to the support of the Americans, although few European countries objected to that”.

During the meetings with high USA State Department, National Security Department and NATO Committee officials Saeima Vice-Speaker Rihards Pîks was told that Latvia itself should not destroy its perspectives to become NATO member state already this year and accomplish its home tasks among which is the abolishment of language requirement for election candidates. Rihards Pîks also mentions that this is not the secret that OSCE Mission to Latvia was closed thanks to the support of the Americans, although few European countries objected to that. Diena

Diena

columnist Dita Araja looks into the first activities of Society Integration Foundation, in particular the way it allotted the funding for integration projects. Araja writes that the first money distribution has disappointed integration experts and has caused concern about the possible lobbying of individual projects. Money distribution without the involvement of experts and giving ethnic society integration projects the secondary role are the main reasons for causing mistrust in the objectiveness of Society Integration Foundation. SIF claims that at the end of the last year they were short of time to look for and involve the experts, however, this year they have already announced the openings. Arâja also writes about the disappointment of international donators concerning SIF decision to stop funding of Latvian language courses for people who want to naturalize. columnist Dita Araja looks into the first activities of Society Integration Foundation, in particular the way it allotted the funding for integration projects. Araja writes that “the first money distribution has disappointed integration experts and has caused concern about the possible lobbying of individual projects”. Money distribution without the involvement of experts and giving ethnic society integration projects the secondary role are the main reasons for causing mistrust in the objectiveness of Society Integration Foundation. SIF claims that at the end of the last year they were short of time to look for and involve the experts, however, this year they have already announced the openings. Arâja also writes about the disappointment of international donators concerning SIF decision to stop funding of Latvian language courses for people who want to naturalize.

Vesti Segodnja

publishes its summary of State Language Commission chairperson Mara Zalites statements concerning the Latvian language publishes its summary of State Language Commission chairperson Mara Zalite’s statements concerning the Latvian language

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, who is visiting the United States where the World Economic Forum takes place, held a meeting with OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Rolf Ekeus, who confirmed the unquestionable right of the Latvian language to be the only state language in Latvia. Vike-Freiberga told Ekeus about the recently established State Language Commission and its tasks for protection and development of the state language. The Latvian President invited the High Commissioner to visit Latvia at the beginning of March.

President Vaira Vike-Freiberga, who is visiting the United States where the World Economic Forum takes place, held a meeting with OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Rolf Ekeus, who confirmed the unquestionable right of the Latvian language to be the only state language in Latvia. Vike-Freiberga told Ekeus about the recently established State Language Commission and its tasks for protection and development of the state language. The Latvian President invited the High Commissioner to visit Latvia at the beginning of March. Diena, LETA

On Friday the leaders of the ruling coalition parties and Saeima factions held the meeting in order to discuss proposed amendments to the Election Law - lifting the requirement that candidates for Saeima and municipal seats must have a top-level command of the Latvian language. FF/NNK Chairman Maris Grinblats pointed out that these were introductory talks during which time an exchange of opinions took place. In his view, such a discussion on the state language matters between the ruling coalition parties could take place once a week. The issue on boosting the state language's position through introduction changes in the Constitution was the main focus of the discussion. The possible amendments to the Constitution have been discussed in order to secure the state language's positions in governmental and municipal institutions. According to Grinblats, during the meeting, less attention was paid to the issue on amendments to the Election Law since a majority does not back them. Prime Minister Andris Berzins said earlier that the ruling coalition meeting is set to outline measures for strengthening the Latvian language. If the method for strengthening the Latvian language is found, the requirement set for deputies in the election laws could be stricken. The coalition task force could continue operations for three to four weeks, Berzins forecasted.

On Friday the leaders of the ruling coalition parties and Saeima factions held the meeting in order to discuss proposed amendments to the Election Law - lifting the requirement that candidates for Saeima and municipal seats must have a top-level command of the Latvian language. FF/NNK Chairman Maris Grinblats pointed out that these were introductory talks during which time an exchange of opinions took place. In his view, such a discussion on the state language matters between the ruling coalition parties could take place once a week. The issue on boosting the state language's position through introduction changes in the Constitution was the main focus of the discussion. The possible amendments to the Constitution have been discussed in order to secure the state language's positions in governmental and municipal institutions. According to Grinblats, during the meeting, less attention was paid to the issue on amendments to the Election Law since a majority does not back them. Prime Minister Andris Berzins said earlier that the ruling coalition meeting is set to outline measures for strengthening the Latvian language. If the method for strengthening the Latvian language is found, the requirement set for deputies in the election laws could be stricken. The coalition task force could continue operations for three to four weeks, Berzins forecasted. Diena, Neatkariga, Lauku Avize, Vesti Segodnja, Chas

Lauku Avize

asks couple questions to Education Minister Kalis Greiskalns about the situation regarding false Latvian language certificates among teachers. The Minister informs that there have been several cases when teachers have presented false state language certificates. In that case a teacher is either asked to re-take language exam or his/her job agreement is terminated. asks couple questions to Education Minister Kalis Greiskalns about the situation regarding false Latvian language certificates among teachers. The Minister informs that there have been several cases when teachers have presented false state language certificates. In that case a teacher is either asked to re-take language exam or his/her job agreement is terminated.

Lauku Avize

informs that former Latvian Social Democrat Workers Party member Baldzens is going to establish his party at the end of March. For the time being he is not disclosing the names of other possible members. informs that former Latvian Social Democrat Workers Party member Baldzens is going to establish his party at the end of March. For the time being he is not disclosing the names of other possible members. Dr.hist. Ilga Kreituse looks into the issue concerning the abolishment of language requirement for election candidates. Kreituse provides a brief insight in legal norms and activities concerning the Latvian language at the end of 80-ties. She believes that due to historical background and activities of local soviet administration in Latvia the country is in unique situation and language requirements should not be abolished. She also considers the work of politicians insufficient as they have to explain to international institutions and officials the particularities of the country.

Dr.hist. Ilga Kreituse looks into the issue concerning the abolishment of language requirement for election candidates. Kreituse provides a brief insight in legal norms and activities concerning the Latvian language at the end of 80-ties. She believes that due to historical background and activities of local soviet administration in Latvia the country is in unique situation and language requirements should not be abolished. She also considers the work of politicians insufficient as they have to explain to international institutions and officials the particularities of the country. Lauku Avize

In his interview for newspaper

In his interview for newspaper Vesti Segodnja E.Repse voices full support to Presidents initiative to abolish language requirement for election candidates.

When talking about his party’s perspectives and work at the next Saeima, E.Repse says that no coalition is possible with left wing parties, that is FHRUL, and that he is also sure that non-Latvians who want stability and welfare in the country would vote for his party.

When talking about his partys perspectives and work at the next Saeima, E.Repse says that no coalition is possible with left wing parties, that is FHRUL, and that he is also sure that non-Latvians who want stability and welfare in the country would vote for his party. Chas

Chas

editorial is about naturalization process in Latvia. It has been already 7 years since the process was launched, however, in the opinion of the columnist there is no serious development achieved. There is still the status of a non-citizen which in fact is no status." The columnist concludes that politicians also degrade the status of citizens, as few people take all decisions in the country. editorial is about naturalization process in Latvia. It has been already 7 years since the process was launched, however, in the opinion of the columnist there is no serious development achieved. “There is still the status of “a non-citizen” which in fact is no status." The columnist concludes that politicians also degrade the status of citizens, as few people take all decisions in the country.

Chas

publishes the responses of Latvian Governments representative in the case Slivenko v. Latvia K.Malinovska from the TV discussion Froma Position of Power. K.Malinovska believes that 99% of Latvian legislation corresponds to the Convention on Human Rights and that the Court will issue the ruling without considering emotional aspects of the case. publishes the responses of Latvian Government’s representative in the case Slivenko v. Latvia K.Malinovska from the TV discussion “From a Position of Power.” K.Malinovska believes that 99% of Latvian legislation corresponds to the Convention on Human Rights and that the Court will issue the ruling without considering emotional aspects of the case. TelegrafTelegraf NATO Secretary General Robertson has voiced that “Baltic States have to fulfill a number of political and military requirements in order to be accepted to NATO” and that the decision about their membership is not taken yet. The observance of human rights of national minorities Robertson named as one of these requirements.

NATO Secretary General Robertson has voiced that Baltic States have to fulfill a number of political and military requirements in order to be accepted to NATO and that the decision about their membership is not taken yet. The observance of human rights of national minorities Robertson named as one of these requirements. Vesti Segodnja, Panorama Latvii

Amendments to the Constitution are to be introduced because at this point the Constitution does not specify clearly the possibility to delegate competence of state institutions to international institutions. The constitution also should be accomplished with procedural issues regulating accession of Latvia to the EU. The draft amendments envisage to incorporate into the constitution a norm that a part of competence of Latvia's state institutions can be delegated to international institutions in order to strengthen democracy in Latvia. Under the amendments all international agreements settling issues that should be solved through legislation should be approved by the parliament.

Amendments to the Constitution are to be introduced because at this point the Constitution does not specify clearly the possibility to delegate competence of state institutions to international institutions. The constitution also should be accomplished with procedural issues regulating accession of Latvia to the EU. The draft amendments envisage to incorporate into the constitution a norm that a part of competence of Latvia's state institutions can be delegated to international institutions in order to strengthen democracy in Latvia. Under the amendments all international agreements settling issues that should be solved through legislation should be approved by the parliament. Diena, Neatkariga, Vesti Segodnja, Chas

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

Although the majority of parliament factions have stated their objections to the presidential initiative to abolish existing language qualifications in the election law, the parliament is nevertheless likely to grant the president's wish, suggested speaker Janis Straume. "It is difficult, of course, to predict the outcome, but I believe that majority in the parliament will obviously come to support these amendments," Straume said in the interview published Thursday in the Latvian official gazette,

Although the majority of parliament factions have stated their objections to the presidential initiative to abolish existing language qualifications in the election law, the parliament is nevertheless likely to grant the president's wish, suggested speaker Janis Straume. "It is difficult, of course, to predict the outcome, but I believe that majority in the parliament will obviously come to support these amendments," Straume said in the interview published Thursday in the Latvian official gazette, Latvijas Vestnesis. He expects "growing intensity in the debate and the international community's interest in the decision by our parliament in coming months" while admitting he himself is opposed to the amendments in question. "My civic and political position is such that I do not approve of these amendments to the election law. Of course, I realize that the need for these legislative amendments has been presented," said the parliament speaker, "... parallel work on separate amendments to laws or the Constitution could strengthen Latvian language positions in our country. Anyway, Latvia currently is in an unenviable situation, therefore it will be very difficult to make a decision," said Straume.

The latest opinion poll showed that 42.8 percent of Latvia's residents believed slight restriction of political freedom was admissible to improve economic situation of the people. According to the poll conducted by SKDS pollster last December, 37.6 percent or respondents rejected the idea and nearly one-fifth or 19.6 percent were undecided. In previous years similar polls produced slightly different results. In 1998, more Latvian residents (53.8 percent) were willing to exchange some political freedom for greater economic benefit, in 1999 this figure was 44.2 percent and in 2000 it was 42.6 percent.

The latest opinion poll showed that 42.8 percent of Latvia's residents believed slight restriction of political freedom was admissible to improve economic situation of the people. According to the poll conducted by SKDS pollster last December, 37.6 percent or respondents rejected the idea and nearly one-fifth or 19.6 percent were undecided. In previous years similar polls produced slightly different results. In 1998, more Latvian residents (53.8 percent) were willing to exchange some political freedom for greater economic benefit, in 1999 this figure was 44.2 percent and in 2000 it was 42.6 percent. BNS

Latvian Ambassador to Russia, Normunds Penke, will Thursday join several other foreign ambassadors for an accreditation ceremony in the Kremlin in Moscow. Penke is scheduled to present his credentials to Russian President Valdimir Putin at 1:00 p.m. Russian time, reported the Latvian embassy in Moscow. Putin is expected to address Latvian, Italian, Spanish, Brazilian, Luxembourg, Ghanese and other foreign ambassadors to Russia, said the embassy.

Latvian Ambassador to Russia, Normunds Penke, will Thursday join several other foreign ambassadors for an accreditation ceremony in the Kremlin in Moscow. Penke is scheduled to present his credentials to Russian President Valdimir Putin at 1:00 p.m. Russian time, reported the Latvian embassy in Moscow. Putin is expected to address Latvian, Italian, Spanish, Brazilian, Luxembourg, Ghanese and other foreign ambassadors to Russia, said the embassy. BNS, Neatkariga

Latvian and Swedish governments' agreement on the development, co-operation and technical assistance in the justice and interior sector is to be signed today. Swedish Minister of Justice Thomas Bodstrom is scheduled to arrive in Riga today in order to sign the agreement. Minister of Justice Ingrida Labucka and Minister of Internal Affairs Mareks Seglins will sign the agreement on behalf of Latvia. The agreement stipulates that both countries' ministries, which are responsible for justice and interior affairs, will continue boosting existing co-operation, pay attention to all stages in the law enforcement system, take into account the other side's proposals and exchange experience within the existing framework of justice and interior affairs, especially concerning reforms in the Latvian Ministry of Justice.

Latvian and Swedish governments' agreement on the development, co-operation and technical assistance in the justice and interior sector is to be signed today. Swedish Minister of Justice Thomas Bodstrom is scheduled to arrive in Riga today in order to sign the agreement. Minister of Justice Ingrida Labucka and Minister of Internal Affairs Mareks Seglins will sign the agreement on behalf of Latvia. The agreement stipulates that both countries' ministries, which are responsible for justice and interior affairs, will continue boosting existing co-operation, pay attention to all stages in the law enforcement system, take into account the other side's proposals and exchange experience within the existing framework of justice and interior affairs, especially concerning reforms in the Latvian Ministry of Justice. LETA

Latvia now has a leading position among NATO enlargement applicant countries, Saeima representative at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Aleksandrs Kirsteins, told a press conference today. Kirsteins pointed out that the NATO Parliamentary Assembly has recognized Latvia's membership action plan (MAP) for NATO as the best. Besides, positive economic growth, the rise in GDP and successful EU negotiations boost Latvia's position even more. The report of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly's Central and Eastern Europe sub-commission on Latvia points out that Latvia is actively implementing requirements set by NATO and European Union both in the economic and military sector.

Latvia now has a leading position among NATO enlargement applicant countries, Saeima representative at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Aleksandrs Kirsteins, told a press conference today. Kirsteins pointed out that the NATO Parliamentary Assembly has recognized Latvia's membership action plan (MAP) for NATO as the best. Besides, positive economic growth, the rise in GDP and successful EU negotiations boost Latvia's position even more. The report of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly's Central and Eastern Europe sub-commission on Latvia points out that Latvia is actively implementing requirements set by NATO and European Union both in the economic and military sector. LETA

The NATO Parliamentary Assembly, which evaluates the accession of new countries to the alliance, has not yet asked Latvia to amend its Saeima and municipal election laws by lifting the requirement on state language tests for candidates to Saeima and municipal seats, Saeima's representative at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Aleksandrs Kirsteins, told a press conference yesterday. Kirsteins stressed that the NATO Assembly has submitted to Latvia many requirements that need to be implemented to obtain NATO membership, however, it has never requested that Latvia's election laws be amended. Kirsteins admitted however that it is possible that the report could be supplemented by other remarks ahead of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly's meeting in Sofia. Nevertheless, there have been no demands from NATO that the law on elections be changed. The Saeima Defense Commission and Foreign Affairs Commission plans to invite Foreign Affairs Minister Indulis Berzins and Ambassador to the United States Aivis Ronis to a joint meeting on this matter. Both said that they had received official requests that election laws be amended, and they will be requested to tell deputies about the specific requests, who made them and when. The parliament cannot change its decisions, based on the personal letters of officials that mention that election laws must be amended, Kirsteins said in commenting on U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage's recent letter to the foreign minister. Kirsteins said that Latvia might have been requested to amend its election laws in some other regard, not in connection with NATO enlargement.

The NATO Parliamentary Assembly, which evaluates the accession of new countries to the alliance, has not yet asked Latvia to amend its Saeima and municipal election laws by lifting the requirement on state language tests for candidates to Saeima and municipal seats, Saeima's representative at the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Aleksandrs Kirsteins, told a press conference yesterday. Kirsteins stressed that the NATO Assembly has submitted to Latvia many requirements that need to be implemented to obtain NATO membership, however, it has never requested that Latvia's election laws be amended. Kirsteins admitted however that it is possible that the report could be supplemented by other remarks ahead of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly's meeting in Sofia. Nevertheless, there have been no demands from NATO that the law on elections be changed. The Saeima Defense Commission and Foreign Affairs Commission plans to invite Foreign Affairs Minister Indulis Berzins and Ambassador to the United States Aivis Ronis to a joint meeting on this matter. Both said that they had received official requests that election laws be amended, and they will be requested to tell deputies about the specific requests, who made them and when. The parliament cannot change its decisions, based on the personal letters of officials that mention that election laws must be amended, Kirsteins said in commenting on U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage's recent letter to the foreign minister. Kirsteins said that Latvia might have been requested to amend its election laws in some other regard, not in connection with NATO enlargement. LETA, Vesti Segodnya

Newspaper

Newspaper Vesti Segodnya writes that Latvian President has arrived to the USA with an intention to convince Americans that Latvia is the best candidate for NATO and it will soon make the last home task – abolish the language proficiency norm. At the same time Latvian parliamentarians found a way to teach the strayed sheep its proper place. They will show Vaira Vike-Freiberga who is the master here, at the same time also Americans will get their share. According the words of the head of commission on defense and internal affairs A.Kirsteins, they plan to summon a joint sitting of the Saeima commission on defense, internal affairs and foreign affairs. And Latvian Ambassador to Washington A.Ronis will have to come here and explain why and under what conditions the Americans had new demands for Latvia and why he dared to criticize parliamentarians.

Latvia has succeeded in proving the validity of its stance in the first stage of proceedings ahead of the European Court of Human Rights's (ECHR) final verdict in the case of Nikolai Slivenko. As a result, a major part of the Slivenko family's petition was not accepted by ECHR, Latvia's representative at international human rights institutions Kristine Malinovska says in the newspaper

Latvia has succeeded in proving the validity of its stance in the first stage of proceedings ahead of the European Court of Human Rights's (ECHR) final verdict in the case of Nikolai Slivenko. As a result, a major part of the Slivenko family's petition was not accepted by ECHR, Latvia's representative at international human rights institutions Kristine Malinovska says in the newspaper Diena today. Malinovska explains the essence of the ECHR verdict and other aspects pointing to a variegated interpretation of Latvia's stance and other issues pertaining to the case..

Answering a question how serious in the signal Latvian authorities received from US Deputy State secretary R.Armitage, Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins agreed to the Prime Minister that it was a serious signal because to NATO they accept not armies but states. And the fact that the President came forth with her initiative was not accidental. the Minister thinks that Americans are very precise formulating their position, and it is not a pressure because they do not demand Latvia to do or not to do something and do not threat with sanctions. They just say: if you want to be like us, you have to do the same as the rest of candidate states; none of these candidate states has such a demand. And the Minister reminded people, who supported preservation of the language proficiency norm for deputy candidates, that this norm just did not work. I.Berzins suggested to follow the President’s advice and introduce some other norms in other laws that would ensure functioning of the Latvian language both in the Saeima and local governments.

Answering a question how serious in the signal Latvian authorities received from US Deputy State secretary R.Armitage, Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs I.Berzins agreed to the Prime Minister that it was a serious signal because to NATO they accept not armies but states. And the fact that the President came forth with her initiative was not accidental. the Minister thinks that Americans are very precise formulating their position, and it is not a pressure because they do not demand Latvia to do or not to do something and do not threat with sanctions. They just say: if you want to be like us, you have to do the same as the rest of candidate states; none of these candidate states has such a demand. And the Minister reminded people, who supported preservation of the language proficiency norm for deputy candidates, that this norm just did not work. I.Berzins suggested to follow the Presidents advice and introduce some other norms in other laws that would ensure functioning of the Latvian language both in the Saeima and local governments. Latvijas Vestnesis

Lauku Avize continues to ask Latvian MPs for their opinion on the proposal of Lithuanian deputies to grant non-citizens there the local government election rights. MPs from the ruling coalition A.Rugate (People’s Party), Dz.Rasnacs (FF/LNNK) and E.Inkens (Latvia’s Way) as well as Social Democrat R.Labanovskis think that this idea is not for Latvia but Y.Pliner from For Human Rights in United Latvia was positive about it saying that in many democratic countries non-citizen are allowed to vote in local government elections. It is permissible because in an ideal version local governments do not deal with politics. He reminded that Estonians had already taken such a step and nothing bad had been heard about it.

Lauku Avize continues to ask Latvian MPs for their opinion on the proposal of Lithuanian deputies to grant non-citizens there the local government election rights. MPs from the ruling coalition A.Rugate (Peoples Party), Dz.Rasnacs (FF/LNNK) and E.Inkens (Latvias Way) as well as Social Democrat R.Labanovskis think that this idea is not for Latvia but Y.Pliner from For Human Rights in United Latvia was positive about it saying that in many democratic countries non-citizen are allowed to vote in local government elections. It is permissible because in an ideal version local governments do not deal with politics. He reminded that Estonians had already taken such a step and nothing bad had been heard about it.

V.Cepurovs writes that some Russian NGOs in Latvia want to establish a special Register of Russian local government tax payers in Latvia” and the same people envisage to establish “National Representation of Russian Compatriots in authorities of the Republic of Latvia”. The initiators claim that “it will give a possibility every Latvian resident, who considers him/herself to be a Russian compatriot to participate in elections of Russian local governments”. And the idea of the Register is to find out how many Russians reside in Latvia, how many kindergartens, schools they need. And the results should be reflected in a special column of the national budget and then “to act accordingly”. Mr.Cepurovs finds these activities as an attempt to establish parallel structures of authority.

V.Cepurovs writes that some Russian NGOs in Latvia want to establish a special Register of Russian local government tax payers in Latvia and the same people envisage to establish National Representation of Russian Compatriots in authorities of the Republic of Latvia. The initiators claim that it will give a possibility every Latvian resident, who considers him/herself to be a Russian compatriot to participate in elections of Russian local governments. And the idea of the Register is to find out how many Russians reside in Latvia, how many kindergartens, schools they need. And the results should be reflected in a special column of the national budget and then to act accordingly. Mr.Cepurovs finds these activities as an attempt to establish parallel structures of authority. Lauku Avize

Lauku Avize

published an interview with German Ambassador to Latvia E.Herold. The Ambassador spoke about tendencies in globalization processes, national radicalism and explained current society integration problems in Germany. Answering to the question what is his opinion concerning the discussion about the need to know the state language, Mr.Herold said that this issue should be solved within the framework of a free and sovereign decision in accordance with the existing in the state Constitutional norms. Respecting the procedure of a making a sovereign decision, the Ambassador considered that the President had said the right thing. Also lawyers agree to that. published an interview with German Ambassador to Latvia E.Herold. The Ambassador spoke about tendencies in globalization processes, national radicalism and explained current society integration problems in Germany. Answering to the question what is his opinion concerning the discussion about the need to know the state language, Mr.Herold said that this issue should be solved within the framework of a free and sovereign decision in accordance with the existing in the state Constitutional norms. Respecting the procedure of a making a sovereign decision, the Ambassador considered that the President had said the right thing. Also lawyers agree to that. Social scientist Prof. J.Penikis states that President’s proposal to amend the election law is a sample how a policy should not be may in politically sensitive for the society issues. In Latvia for many years had been operating an OSCE Mission that monitored, advised, reported to other governments and organizations, etc. on democratization, public integration, citizenship and many other issues. And in autumn of 2001 both in Estonia and Latvia missions were planned to close with a final report that both these countries had become perfect democracies. In Estonia the closure was linked with abolishing the language proficiency norm for deputy candidates. In the mandate of the Latvian mission this issue was not included. Estonian Parliament abolished this norm, and at the same time the OSCE Mission in Latvia discovered the same thing in Latvia, and the head of the Misison P.Semneby appealed to the Latvian government and society to abolish this norm for the sake of principles of democracy. Then came the President with her announcement but the majority in the Saeima did not want to know about it. Only after a big trouble started in the Saeima and mass media, President’s councilors realized that a commission should be established and experts asked for advice. Meanwhile the Cabinet of Ministers and leaders of major parties still pretend that everything is OK, “because we have fulfilled everything what OSCE asked for!”

Social scientist Prof. J.Penikis states that Presidents proposal to amend the election law is a sample how a policy should not be may in politically sensitive for the society issues. In Latvia for many years had been operating an OSCE Mission that monitored, advised, reported to other governments and organizations, etc. on democratization, public integration, citizenship and many other issues. And in autumn of 2001 both in Estonia and Latvia missions were planned to close with a final report that both these countries had become perfect democracies. In Estonia the closure was linked with abolishing the language proficiency norm for deputy candidates. In the mandate of the Latvian mission this issue was not included. Estonian Parliament abolished this norm, and at the same time the OSCE Mission in Latvia discovered the same thing in Latvia, and the head of the Misison P.Semneby appealed to the Latvian government and society to abolish this norm for the sake of principles of democracy. Then came the President with her announcement but the majority in the Saeima did not want to know about it. Only after a big trouble started in the Saeima and mass media, Presidents councilors realized that a commission should be established and experts asked for advice. Meanwhile the Cabinet of Ministers and leaders of major parties still pretend that everything is OK, because we have fulfilled everything what OSCE asked for! Lauku Avize

A.Mamikin in the newspaper

A.Mamikin in the newspaper Chas states that as much the Cabinet of Ministers tried to adopt the new regulations on domicile registration, in reality it just copied the soviet system of propiska. Many governments tried to exchange it, even the last government of A.Berzins, but the law on declaring ones place of residence stack in the Saeima. And for the Minister of Interior remained anything else as to write new – temporary regulations, establishing the old system. The new law is planned to take effect on 1 January 2003.

Vesti Segodnya

interviewed the new head of the state language commission M.Zalite. The poetess finds the Latvian language in great danger because it still lacks practical usage. There are many laws ensuring its usage but in practice we see that in many places, e.g. shops, workshops, etc. you have to speak Russian to be served. interviewed the new head of the state language commission M.Zalite. The poetess finds the Latvian language in great danger because it still lacks practical usage. There are many laws ensuring its usage but in practice we see that in many places, e.g. shops, workshops, etc. you have to speak Russian to be served.

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

LATVIAN MEDIA REVIEW

Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins is paying an official visit to Switzerland beginning today through January 31. As LETA learned at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the minister will take part in today's event organized by the Swiss Investment Agency SOFI in Zurich, where he is set to meet with the Swiss businessmen and mass media representatives. The minister will report on Latvia's latest political and economic achievements and push for active business contacts with Latvian partners.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Indulis Berzins is paying an official visit to Switzerland beginning today through January 31. As LETA learned at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the minister will take part in today's event organized by the Swiss Investment Agency SOFI in Zurich, where he is set to meet with the Swiss businessmen and mass media representatives. The minister will report on Latvia's latest political and economic achievements and push for active business contacts with Latvian partners. LETA

Russian-speaking newspapers

Russian-speaking newspapers Telegraf and Vesti Segodnya inform about a Russian businessman Vladimirs Gurovs, the president of the "Biznes&Baltija" Media Group, who opens a new broadcasting station "Nova" on 103.2 FM that will broadcast songs only in the Latvian language. The new radio station has been founded through the co-operation of "Biznes&Baltija" Media Group and "Studentu radio Ltd.", which are owners of 103,2 FM frequency.

The Cabinet of Ministers today approved an action plan for implementing priorities included in the European Commission's (EC) 2001 progress report. The government assigned the European Integration Bureau to supplement the national program for integration into the European Union according to measures described in the action plan. It is planned to adopt by February 1 a draft law “On elections of European Parliament” and draft amendments to the election law stipulating the rights of EU citizens, disregarding their national belonging, to elect and be elected into the European Parliament and those local governments of Latvia, on the territory of which they reside. In the same chapter it is stated that for joining EU Latvia should abolish those norms of local jurisdiction that directly or indirectly discriminate, e.g. according to one’s citizenship, language proficiency and place of residence. Respective institutions will report at each meeting of the European Integration Bureau on implementation of the action plan.

The Cabinet of Ministers today approved an action plan for implementing priorities included in the European Commission's (EC) 2001 progress report. The government assigned the European Integration Bureau to supplement the national program for integration into the European Union according to measures described in the action plan. It is planned to adopt by February 1 a draft law On elections of European Parliament and draft amendments to the election law stipulating the rights of EU citizens, disregarding their national belonging, to elect and be elected into the European Parliament and those local governments of Latvia, on the territory of which they reside. In the same chapter it is stated that for joining EU Latvia should abolish those norms of local jurisdiction that directly or indirectly discriminate, e.g. according to ones citizenship, language proficiency and place of residence. Respective institutions will report at each meeting of the European Integration Bureau on implementation of the action plan. LETA, Panorama Latvii

During her visit to the United States, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga has no intention of spotlighting the issue pertaining to amendments to the election law in Latvia. In a press conference upon her departure for the U.S. today, Vike-Freiberga pointed out that a broader range of issues will be on the agenda of her meetings with U.S. Vice President Richard Cheney and U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell. The president mentioned the issue of U.S. support for NATO expansion during this fall's Prague summit. Latvia's prospects are to be clarified as well as its weak points. Latvia must assure the Americans that it has not "tired out" in its move to NATO, or still has doubts, said Vike-Freiberga. The issues of the amendments to the election laws would be dealt with only in case the president is asked about them. Vike-Freiberga stressed that she regards as her duty to confirm that Latvia wants to carry out the necessary changes despite the fact that it sometimes lacks courage to adopt unpopular decisions.

During her visit to the United States, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga has no intention of spotlighting the issue pertaining to amendments to the election law in Latvia. In a press conference upon her departure for the U.S. today, Vike-Freiberga pointed out that a broader range of issues will be on the agenda of her meetings with U.S. Vice President Richard Cheney and U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell. The president mentioned the issue of U.S. support for NATO expansion during this fall's Prague summit. Latvia's prospects are to be clarified as well as its weak points. Latvia must assure the Americans that it has not "tired out" in its move to NATO, or still has doubts, said Vike-Freiberga. The issues of the amendments to the election laws would be dealt with only in case the president is asked about them. Vike-Freiberga stressed that she regards as her duty to confirm that Latvia wants to carry out the necessary changes despite the fact that it sometimes lacks courage to adopt unpopular decisions. LETA

Newspaper

Newspaper Chas asked Professor of Riga Graduate School of Law, specialist on international law, I.Ziemele to comment the decision of European Human Rights Court on partial receiving for consideration in substance the case of Slivenko. Pr.Ziemele explained that the Court decided to consider only some points of this case in substance and it meant that whatever the final decision would be, it would concern only the Slivenkos case and would not serve as a precedent in the juridical sense. And if this case will be followed by analog processes, in every particular case there will be a new hearing. Chas

Newspaper

Newspaper Vechernyaya Riga interviewed the Head of the State Language Center Dz.Hirsa about the current situation with the Latvian language and the call of the President Vaira Vike-Freiberga to yield to the international pressure. Ms.Hirsa considers that Latvian legislation does not demand anything impossible from those Russian-speakers, who have decided to stay here. They just have to learn the Latvian language, even on the second - conversational, level. Of course, it is morally difficult to live as a non-citizen but if those people realized the fact of occupation, they would understand the fear of Latvians that it could repeat. And if all non-citizens became citizens, Latvians would not managed to preserve their national state. When asked about the prospects of Latvias joining NATO and EU, Ms.Hirsa said that she saw joining NATO as a very necessary step but doubted about EU. This federation is dealing with ideological issues but has not developed its own constitution, yet. And looking at its policy of double standards, Ms.Hirsha doubts its ability to solve problems, especially in Latvia. When asked what is the price she would recede from her principles concerning the Latvian language, she answered it would be only in the case of NATO.

Publicist V.Lacis published in newspaper

Publicist V.Lacis published in newspaper Lauku Avize an article with his opinions on the language situation in Latvia and the Presidents proposal to amend the election laws. Mr.Lacis starts his article with a statement that nowadays nobody is so self-destructing as Latvians themselves. Majority of them together with the State President, three ruling parties, supported by humbleness and flabbiness of two other parties, represented in the Saeima, and even increasing pliability under the pressure both from East and West have constructed a bridge that leads Latvian nation to extinction. To avoid this, Latvian state has immediately and radically change its current foreign policy. We can not do away with the consequences of half a century occupation just by keeping silent. We have legal and moral rights to demand it and first of all it is the President who has at first to say it in a polite, diplomatic way. But she once more forces the Saeima to amend the language law to flannel the USA and EU, stating that otherwise Latvia would not be accepted to NATO says the author. Further on Mr.Lacis compares the situation in Latvia with the one in Lithuania, and explaining, why non-citizens in Latvia should not receive citizenship automatically, states that majority of those people are still hostile to Latvia. And at the end of his article the publicist criticizes the latest developments in the process of naturalization – lowering the level of the language test demands.

Lifting or not lifting the requirement in Latvia's Election Law set for deputy nominees for fluency in the Latvian language will not be used as a criterion in deciding on Latvia's invitation to the European Union (EU), the head of the European Commission's (EC) delegation to Latvia, Andrew Rasbash, confirms in an interview in the newspaper

Lifting or not lifting the requirement in Latvia's Election Law set for deputy nominees for fluency in the Latvian language will not be used as a criterion in deciding on Latvia's invitation to the European Union (EU), the head of the European Commission's (EC) delegation to Latvia, Andrew Rasbash, confirms in an interview in the newspaper Diena today. Rasbash points out that Latvia has already been acknowledged as a country which meets political criteria for EU membership, adding that EC completely backs the stance taken by President Vaira Vike-Freiberga on abolishing the language requirement in the Election Law. Rasbash informs that the president courageously promised to push for amendments to the law at the end of past year when the issue on the closure of the OSCE mission in Latvia was under discussion. EC backs this initiative and anticipates its implementation in coming months.

Latvian Ambassador to Russia Normunds Penke will present credentials to Russian President Vladimir Putin tomorrow, January 31, at 1 p.m., the Latvian Embassy in Russia told

Latvian Ambassador to Russia Normunds Penke will present credentials to Russian President Vladimir Putin tomorrow, January 31, at 1 p.m., the Latvian Embassy in Russia told LETA.