Press Report

A rally of protest against the initialization of the agreement between Russia and Latvia on troops' withdrawal was held in front of the Saema building yesterday. Aleksandrs Kirsteins (LNNK), the Chairman of the Saema Commission on Foreign Affairs noted that the agreements initialled in Moscow differed from the drafts introduced to the deputies. He also stated that the agreement on pensioned officers contradicts the Constitution of Latvia. He expressed the opinion that "at least 70 thousand former KGB and army officers with experience in "hot-beds" are even more dangerous than several thousand-large military corps". LNNK suggested that every paragraph of the agreements should be discussed in the Saema. It was also stressed that the agreements do not mention the recognition of occupation of Latvia in 1940, compensation for the damages incurred by the occupation, and the issue of Abrene. Similar thoughts were expressed by the head of the "Tevzemei un Brivibai" fraction Maris Grinbalts. The Minister of Justice Mr.Egils Levits evaluated the strict determination of the withdrawal deadline as a "prominent achievement of Latvian diplomacy."

A rally of protest against the initialization of the agreement between Russia and Latvia on troops' withdrawal was held in front of the Saema building yesterday. Aleksandrs Kirsteins (LNNK), the Chairman of the Saema Commission on Foreign Affairs noted that the agreements initialled in Moscow differed from the drafts introduced to the deputies. He also stated that the agreement on pensioned officers contradicts the Constitution of Latvia. He expressed the opinion that "at least 70 thousand former KGB and army officers with experience in "hot-beds" are even more dangerous than several thousand-large military corps". LNNK suggested that every paragraph of the agreements should be discussed in the Saema. It was also stressed that the agreements do not mention the recognition of occupation of Latvia in 1940, compensation for the damages incurred by the occupation, and the issue of Abrene. Similar thoughts were expressed by the head of the "Tevzemei un Brivibai" fraction Maris Grinbalts. The Minister of Justice Mr.Egils Levits evaluated the strict determination of the withdrawal deadline as a "prominent achievement of Latvian diplomacy." Diena, Labrit

In response to the LNNK demands to distribute the text of the agreement between the deputies the Government published the complete text in today's newspapers. In the framework of the discussion over the agreement Mr.Virsis, the Head of the Latvian Delegation to the Talks put several questions to the opposition member Mr.A.Kirsteins who had also participated in the talks. Mr.Kirsteins agreed that the current geopolitical situation is different from the one that existed in 1939. He also noted that Russian troops would be withdrawn mainly thanks to the pressure exercised by USA, G-7, the Union of Europe, the UN, and CSCE but not the agreement itself. He stressed that Latvia's development would be jeopardized if the principal issues of relations between Russia and Latvia were not clarified before the joining of the Council of Europe by Russia. The issues include the recognition of the occupation of Latvia by Russia, compensation of the damages incurred by the occupation, territorial issues (Abrene).

In response to the LNNK demands to distribute the text of the agreement between the deputies the Government published the complete text in today's newspapers. In the framework of the discussion over the agreement Mr.Virsis, the Head of the Latvian Delegation to the Talks put several questions to the opposition member Mr.A.Kirsteins who had also participated in the talks. Mr.Kirsteins agreed that the current geopolitical situation is different from the one that existed in 1939. He also noted that Russian troops would be withdrawn mainly thanks to the pressure exercised by USA, G-7, the Union of Europe, the UN, and CSCE but not the agreement itself. He stressed that Latvia's development would be jeopardized if the principal issues of relations between Russia and Latvia were not clarified before the joining of the Council of Europe by Russia. The issues include the recognition of the occupation of Latvia by Russia, compensation of the damages incurred by the occupation, territorial issues (Abrene). Neatkariga Cina, Labrit

Viktor Daugmalis, the columnist for "NEATKARIGA CINA", forecasts a possible political crisis in Latvia in connection with the troops' withdrawal agreement. He believes that the only way that the Government can avoid the crisis is by choosing a hard way of "entering the international community of states", i.e. by implementing the foreign policies that are more independent. Among the possible consequences of such independent approach he points out the pressure on the part of Russian-controlled local businesses and Russia itself, and decrease of Western investments into Latvian economy. Still he believes that this is the only way the country can achieve a real independence.

Viktor Daugmalis, the columnist for "NEATKARIGA CINA", forecasts a possible political crisis in Latvia in connection with the troops' withdrawal agreement. He believes that the only way that the Government can avoid the crisis is by choosing a hard way of "entering the international community of states", i.e. by implementing the foreign policies that are more independent. Among the possible consequences of such independent approach he points out the pressure on the part of Russian-controlled local businesses and Russia itself, and decrease of Western investments into Latvian economy. Still he believes that this is the only way the country can achieve a real independence. Neatkariga Cina

The British Government welcomed the initialization of the agreements between Russia and Latvia in its official statement issued on March 16. The US administration also positively evaluated the initialled agreements. "We consider it to be a prominent contribution to the stability in the region", said the spokesman for the Department of State Mr.Mike McMoory.

The British Government welcomed the initialization of the agreements between Russia and Latvia in its official statement issued on March 16. The US administration also positively evaluated the initialled agreements. "We consider it to be a prominent contribution to the stability in the region", said the spokesman for the Department of State Mr.Mike McMoory. Diena

The agreements on troops' withdrawal were one of the topics of discussion between President Guntis Ulmanis and the Pope during their yesterday meeting in Vatican. President Ulmanis expressed his concern about the possibility of Latvia being an object of a "back-stage deal" between the super-powers. The Pope said that he had spoken to Mr.Yeltsin on Skrunda last June and that he is planning to mention the issue during his meetings with other leaders.

The agreements on troops' withdrawal were one of the topics of discussion between President Guntis Ulmanis and the Pope during their yesterday meeting in Vatican. President Ulmanis expressed his concern about the possibility of Latvia being an object of a "back-stage deal" between the super-powers. The Pope said that he had spoken to Mr.Yeltsin on Skrunda last June and that he is planning to mention the issue during his meetings with other leaders. Diena, Labrit

Press Report

On March 15 a time-bomb planted near a high-voltage supply line pole was discovered by a local farmer in Kuldiga region. The supply line was used by the Skrunda radar station. The farmer informed the local police. National guards, civil defence forces, and Russian Army unit at the radar station were also informed. According to "DIENA" Russian servicemen failed to discharge the bomb due to the dusk while other sources say that they refused to participate. The bomb was discharged later by the local police. The bomb consisted of an 11.8 kg TNT charge and a timer. Around 0.4 kg of TNT were used for the previous explosion. The failed explosion could cause serous damages to nearby houses and farms.

On March 15 a time-bomb planted near a high-voltage supply line pole was discovered by a local farmer in Kuldiga region. The supply line was used by the Skrunda radar station. The farmer informed the local police. National guards, civil defence forces, and Russian Army unit at the radar station were also informed. According to "DIENA" Russian servicemen failed to discharge the bomb due to the dusk while other sources say that they refused to participate. The bomb was discharged later by the local police. The bomb consisted of an 11.8 kg TNT charge and a timer. Around 0.4 kg of TNT were used for the previous explosion. The failed explosion could cause serous damages to nearby houses and farms. Diena, Neatkariga Cina, Vakara Zinas, SM

The package of agreements initialled by Latvia and Russia has caused a controversial reaction in the Saema. The LNNK leadership has issued a statement that refers to the agreement as the betrayal of the national interests of Latvia and accuses the Government of legalizing the occupation of Latvia. LNNK also points out that the agreement was prepared secretly and demands its publishing. The party also calls upon the President, the Saema, and the citizens not to sign the agreement, not to ratify it, and to protest against it. In addition, LNNK allows the possibility of taking extraordinary measures like joining the appeal of the Union of the Self-Governing Bodies to impeach the Fifth Saema. "Tevzemei un Brivibai" considers the agreement to be the violation of the Law on International Agreements" that provides no rights of signing any agreements on the stay of foreign troops on the Latvian soil to the Government. According to "T un B" the agreement on the Skrunda radar station means the prolongation of the stay of Russian troops. The party will demand a referendum on Skrunda to be held during the upcoming local elections. Most probably the "T un B" fraction will vote against the ratification of the agreement or will abstain. The head of the "Saskana" fraction Mr.Edvin Kide gave a positive evaluation of the results of the talks. He said that the fraction deputies were worried about the talks reaching a deadlock. As the main achievement he pointed out the naming of the final date for the troops' withdrawal. Similar point of view was expressed by "Latvijas Cels" spokesman Mr.Indulis Berzins. He also said that it would be difficult to forecast the further development of events which will mainly depend on the political situation in Russia. The Head of the Latvian delegation Mr.Virsis told the journalists that there were no winners or losers since the results achieved during the talks had been a mutual compromise. The agreements will be published after they are approved of by the Government. Mr. Virsis does not believe in a smooth ratification of the agreements. The Minister for Special missions Mr.Edvins Inkens said that he expected that there would be strong opposition towards the agreement. Still, he evaluated the results as "an important compromise".

The package of agreements initialled by Latvia and Russia has caused a controversial reaction in the Saema. The LNNK leadership has issued a statement that refers to the agreement as the betrayal of the national interests of Latvia and accuses the Government of legalizing the occupation of Latvia. LNNK also points out that the agreement was prepared secretly and demands its publishing. The party also calls upon the President, the Saema, and the citizens not to sign the agreement, not to ratify it, and to protest against it. In addition, LNNK allows the possibility of taking extraordinary measures like joining the appeal of the Union of the Self-Governing Bodies to impeach the Fifth Saema. "Tevzemei un Brivibai" considers the agreement to be the violation of the Law on International Agreements" that provides no rights of signing any agreements on the stay of foreign troops on the Latvian soil to the Government. According to "T un B" the agreement on the Skrunda radar station means the prolongation of the stay of Russian troops. The party will demand a referendum on Skrunda to be held during the upcoming local elections. Most probably the "T un B" fraction will vote against the ratification of the agreement or will abstain. The head of the "Saskana" fraction Mr.Edvin Kide gave a positive evaluation of the results of the talks. He said that the fraction deputies were worried about the talks reaching a deadlock. As the main achievement he pointed out the naming of the final date for the troops' withdrawal. Similar point of view was expressed by "Latvijas Cels" spokesman Mr.Indulis Berzins. He also said that it would be difficult to forecast the further development of events which will mainly depend on the political situation in Russia. The Head of the Latvian delegation Mr.Virsis told the journalists that there were no winners or losers since the results achieved during the talks had been a mutual compromise. The agreements will be published after they are approved of by the Government. Mr. Virsis does not believe in a smooth ratification of the agreements. The Minister for Special missions Mr.Edvins Inkens said that he expected that there would be strong opposition towards the agreement. Still, he evaluated the results as "an important compromise". Diena

During his interview Sergey Zotov named the first half of April as a possible time of the Latvian-Russian summit.

During his interview Sergey Zotov named the first half of April as a possible time of the Latvian-Russian summit. SM Segodnya

Several Saema fractions have prepared their proposals for the discussion of the second reading of the Draft Citizenship Law. The discussion is expected to be held before Easter holidays. The "Saskana Fraction" has modified several articles of its draft to conform to the conclusions of the experts of the Union of Europe. The LNNK fraction will come forward with proposals that are part of the joint LNNK/"Tevzemei un Brivibai" draft. "Latvijas Cels" has also prepared its own draft that will be discussed with other fractions. The draft by "Saskana" does not involve the quota principle. According to its draft the priority groups should be naturalized within a two-year period. The fraction will also compare its own draft with the second reading of the "Latviajs cels" draft in order to find out the differences and to put the contradicting articles in conformance to the recommendations by the Union of Europe. "Saskana" also believes that in accordance with international practice the citizenship should be granted to those born in Latvia after the adoption of the Citizenship Law irrespective of their parents' citizenship. "Tevzemei un Brivibai" will continue its work with LNNK on the joint draft to be later discussed during a nation-wide pole. The main differences between the drafts by the governing coalition and the opposition concern the regulations and the terms of naturalization. The second reading of the "Latvijas Cels" draft replaces the quota principle by a naturalization schedule for the next five years. The nationalist parties preserve the quota principle setting the quotas to be 0.1% of the total numbers of citizens previous year.

Several Saema fractions have prepared their proposals for the discussion of the second reading of the Draft Citizenship Law. The discussion is expected to be held before Easter holidays. The "Saskana Fraction" has modified several articles of its draft to conform to the conclusions of the experts of the Union of Europe. The LNNK fraction will come forward with proposals that are part of the joint LNNK/"Tevzemei un Brivibai" draft. "Latvijas Cels" has also prepared its own draft that will be discussed with other fractions. The draft by "Saskana" does not involve the quota principle. According to its draft the priority groups should be naturalized within a two-year period. The fraction will also compare its own draft with the second reading of the "Latviajs cels" draft in order to find out the differences and to put the contradicting articles in conformance to the recommendations by the Union of Europe. "Saskana" also believes that in accordance with international practice the citizenship should be granted to those born in Latvia after the adoption of the Citizenship Law irrespective of their parents' citizenship. "Tevzemei un Brivibai" will continue its work with LNNK on the joint draft to be later discussed during a nation-wide pole. The main differences between the drafts by the governing coalition and the opposition concern the regulations and the terms of naturalization. The second reading of the "Latvijas Cels" draft replaces the quota principle by a naturalization schedule for the next five years. The nationalist parties preserve the quota principle setting the quotas to be 0.1% of the total numbers of citizens previous year. Diena, SM

Press Report

The complete package of agreements on troops' withdrawal between Latvia and Russia was initialled in Moscow on March 15. The package includes the following four documents: the agreement on the terms and procedure of the complete withdrawal of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, the agreement on the temporary operation of the Skrunda radar station and, and two agreements on social guarantees for Russian Army servicemen. The documents are to be approved of by both governments, signed by both presidents, and ratified by the parliaments. One of the documents that is part of the agreements initialled at the talks is a basic agreement on the terms and procedure of the withdrawal of Russian Armed Forces from Latvia which names August 31, 1994 as the withdrawal deadline. The withdrawal schedule will be added to the agreement. According to the heads of both delegations the schedule has already been worked out. The agreements on social guarantees for Russian Army servicemen includes the agreement on servicemen at active service during their temporary stay in Latvia and the agreement on retired servicemen and their families which applies to servicemen retired before January 28, 1992, i.e. before the transfer of the Soviet Army under the Jurisdiction of the Russian Federation. According to the agreement such retired servicemen will be guaranteed the permission to stay in Latvia and their pensions will be paid by Russia from its pension funds. The agreement on Skrunda does not state the annual rent to be paid by Russia. Still, it was stated by the head of the Russian delegation that it could not be an obstacle to the Russian-Latvian summit. Previously it had been stated by Russia that the summit would not be held unless the rent is agreed upon. Russia is still offering 2 mln USD rent while Latvia abandoned its categorical demands for 400 mln USD annual payments but is expecting the rent higher than the one offered by Russia. According to non-official sources the 1994 military budget of Russia is unexpectedly low and so it is hard to expect that Latvia will manage to get a higher rent for Skrunda. Still the rent could be increased indirectly through the introduction of preferential duties on Latvian goods exported to Russia. Mr. Zotov noted that by signing the agreement Russia had produced various bilateral and multilateral guarantees of the inviolability of the sovereignty of Latvia.

The complete package of agreements on troops' withdrawal between Latvia and Russia was initialled in Moscow on March 15. The package includes the following four documents: the agreement on the terms and procedure of the complete withdrawal of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, the agreement on the temporary operation of the Skrunda radar station and, and two agreements on social guarantees for Russian Army servicemen. The documents are to be approved of by both governments, signed by both presidents, and ratified by the parliaments. One of the documents that is part of the agreements initialled at the talks is a basic agreement on the terms and procedure of the withdrawal of Russian Armed Forces from Latvia which names August 31, 1994 as the withdrawal deadline. The withdrawal schedule will be added to the agreement. According to the heads of both delegations the schedule has already been worked out. The agreements on social guarantees for Russian Army servicemen includes the agreement on servicemen at active service during their temporary stay in Latvia and the agreement on retired servicemen and their families which applies to servicemen retired before January 28, 1992, i.e. before the transfer of the Soviet Army under the Jurisdiction of the Russian Federation. According to the agreement such retired servicemen will be guaranteed the permission to stay in Latvia and their pensions will be paid by Russia from its pension funds. The agreement on Skrunda does not state the annual rent to be paid by Russia. Still, it was stated by the head of the Russian delegation that it could not be an obstacle to the Russian-Latvian summit. Previously it had been stated by Russia that the summit would not be held unless the rent is agreed upon. Russia is still offering 2 mln USD rent while Latvia abandoned its categorical demands for 400 mln USD annual payments but is expecting the rent higher than the one offered by Russia. According to non-official sources the 1994 military budget of Russia is unexpectedly low and so it is hard to expect that Latvia will manage to get a higher rent for Skrunda. Still the rent could be increased indirectly through the introduction of preferential duties on Latvian goods exported to Russia. Mr. Zotov noted that by signing the agreement Russia had produced various bilateral and multilateral guarantees of the inviolability of the sovereignty of Latvia. Diena, Labrit

The "Tevzemei un Brivibai" fraction expressed opinion that the talks between Russia and Latvia had entered into contradiction with Latvian laws and the will of the majority of the country's citizens. The extraordinary meeting of the Co-ordination Council of the party was held on March 15 in this connection. It was decided during the meeting to suggest the Saema to adopt a draft law that would allow to hold a referendum on the Skrunda issue during the local elections. Though according to Latvian laws the referendum cannot directly influence international agreements the fraction believes that it could be a political action that will help to express the opinion of Latvian citizens on the problem. It was also stated by the fraction that the decision by the Cabinet of Ministers regarding the agreements on Skrunda and retired servicemen is illegal since according to the Law it is only the Saema that can adopt such decisions.

The "Tevzemei un Brivibai" fraction expressed opinion that the talks between Russia and Latvia had entered into contradiction with Latvian laws and the will of the majority of the country's citizens. The extraordinary meeting of the Co-ordination Council of the party was held on March 15 in this connection. It was decided during the meeting to suggest the Saema to adopt a draft law that would allow to hold a referendum on the Skrunda issue during the local elections. Though according to Latvian laws the referendum cannot directly influence international agreements the fraction believes that it could be a political action that will help to express the opinion of Latvian citizens on the problem. It was also stated by the fraction that the decision by the Cabinet of Ministers regarding the agreements on Skrunda and retired servicemen is illegal since according to the Law it is only the Saema that can adopt such decisions. Labrit

There is around 700,000 stateless persons residing currently in Latvia. Still, the existing laws do not define them as stateless. They can be considered to be "permanent residents" since they have permanent Latvian "propiska". But the laws do not give the definition of a "permanent resident" either. This group of inhabitants of Latvia includes retired servicemen. Still the latter do not need residence permits since according to Paragraph 1 of the Decree of the Supreme Soviet of the Latvian Republic of June 10, 1992 "On the Procedure of Implementation of the Law "On the Entrance and Stay of Stateless Persons and Foreigners in the Republic of Latvia" residents permits are to be issued to foreigners and stateless persons who had no Latvian "propiska" on the date of the Law coming into force. This means that the law defining the status of the stateless persons is needed. Upon the adoption of the Citizenship Law part of the stateless will be naturalized, part of them will choose Russian citizenship, and a certain number of "real" stateless will still remain. On March 17 the Legal Commission of the Saema considered three draft laws on the status of the stateless. The first two drafts proposed by "Latvijas Cels" and "Saskana Latvijai" have very much in common and suggest that all former USSR citizens that had a permanent Latvian "propiska" on July 1, 1992 should enjoy the rights and fulfil the duties stated by the Law of the Republic of Latvia "On the Rights and the Duties of an Individual and a Citizen" and the Law on Ethnic Communities. The "Latvijas Cels" draft suggests that the identification certificate (?) is not issued to persons who had retired from the USSR or Russian Armed Forces, KGB, border guard, or other military units after August 21, 1991 (?) except for the persons who had had Latvian "propiska" before joining the aforementioned units, or are members of citizens' families. Other retired servicemen who entered Latvia after June 17, 1940 will receive the identification certificate (?) and will be issued with 3 to 5 year temporary residence permits. The joint draft by LNNK and "Tevzemei un Brivibai" suggests that all former USSR citizens who have not received the citizenship of any other state should be considered foreigners and should apply for temporary or permanent residence permits. Taking into consideration the fundamental contradictions existing between the two concepts the Legal Commission suggested that "Latvias Cels" and "Saskana Latvijai" should prepare a joint draft. Both drafts will be discussed at the next meeting of the Legal Commission of the Saema.

There is around 700,000 stateless persons residing currently in Latvia. Still, the existing laws do not define them as stateless. They can be considered to be "permanent residents" since they have permanent Latvian "propiska". But the laws do not give the definition of a "permanent resident" either. This group of inhabitants of Latvia includes retired servicemen. Still the latter do not need residence permits since according to Paragraph 1 of the Decree of the Supreme Soviet of the Latvian Republic of June 10, 1992 "On the Procedure of Implementation of the Law "On the Entrance and Stay of Stateless Persons and Foreigners in the Republic of Latvia" residents permits are to be issued to foreigners and stateless persons who had no Latvian "propiska" on the date of the Law coming into force. This means that the law defining the status of the stateless persons is needed. Upon the adoption of the Citizenship Law part of the stateless will be naturalized, part of them will choose Russian citizenship, and a certain number of "real" stateless will still remain. On March 17 the Legal Commission of the Saema considered three draft laws on the status of the stateless. The first two drafts proposed by "Latvijas Cels" and "Saskana Latvijai" have very much in common and suggest that all former USSR citizens that had a permanent Latvian "propiska" on July 1, 1992 should enjoy the rights and fulfil the duties stated by the Law of the Republic of Latvia "On the Rights and the Duties of an Individual and a Citizen" and the Law on Ethnic Communities. The "Latvijas Cels" draft suggests that the identification certificate (?) is not issued to persons who had retired from the USSR or Russian Armed Forces, KGB, border guard, or other military units after August 21, 1991 (?) except for the persons who had had Latvian "propiska" before joining the aforementioned units, or are members of citizens' families. Other retired servicemen who entered Latvia after June 17, 1940 will receive the identification certificate (?) and will be issued with 3 to 5 year temporary residence permits. The joint draft by LNNK and "Tevzemei un Brivibai" suggests that all former USSR citizens who have not received the citizenship of any other state should be considered foreigners and should apply for temporary or permanent residence permits. Taking into consideration the fundamental contradictions existing between the two concepts the Legal Commission suggested that "Latvias Cels" and "Saskana Latvijai" should prepare a joint draft. Both drafts will be discussed at the next meeting of the Legal Commission of the Saema. Labrit

Press Review

At the end of the first day of the talks between Russia and Latvia in moscow both sides agreed that the difference of opinions had remained only regarding the rent for the Skrunda radar station. According to the Head of the Latvian delegation Mr.Virsis the agreement on social guarantees for retired Russian servicemen needs only some additional polishing. The Head of the Russian delegation Mr.Zotov suggested that the agreement on that issue might be signed on Tuesday, March 15. Mr.Zotov does not expect the issue of the Skrunda rent to be settled upon during the second day of the talks. This will make it the only issue that will not be agreed upon. The Head of the Russian delegation noted that in that case the summit would not take place since the Delegation had to submit the complete set of agreements to President Yeltsin. According to Mr.Virsis the agreement on social guarantees for retired servicemen refers to the officers retired before August 28, 1992, i.e. before the former Soviet Army was taken under the jurisdiction of Russia. As for the officers retired after that date the lists of such persons will be submitted by the Russian party to be considered by the representatives of Russia and Latvia. Russia agreed that CSCE could act as an intermediate and observer during that process. Both parties have not changed their approach to the Skrunda issue. Though agreement on technical issues has already been achieved the problem of rent still remains unsolved. Mr.Zotov again connected the amount paid by the Russian party for the rent of the radar site to the terms of troops withdrawal. He said that Russia could promptly withdraw the troops and make larger investments into housing for the withdrawn servicemen or pay the rent that is "absurd" thus delaying the withdrawal. Still, he believes that a certain compromise may be achieved. 

At the end of the first day of the talks between Russia and Latvia in moscow both sides agreed that the difference of opinions had remained only regarding the rent for the Skrunda radar station. According to the Head of the Latvian delegation Mr.Virsis the agreement on social guarantees for retired Russian servicemen needs only some additional polishing. The Head of the Russian delegation Mr.Zotov suggested that the agreement on that issue might be signed on Tuesday, March 15. Mr.Zotov does not expect the issue of the Skrunda rent to be settled upon during the second day of the talks. This will make it the only issue that will not be agreed upon. The Head of the Russian delegation noted that in that case the summit would not take place since the Delegation had to submit the complete set of agreements to President Yeltsin. According to Mr.Virsis the agreement on social guarantees for retired servicemen refers to the officers retired before August 28, 1992, i.e. before the former Soviet Army was taken under the jurisdiction of Russia. As for the officers retired after that date the lists of such persons will be submitted by the Russian party to be considered by the representatives of Russia and Latvia. Russia agreed that CSCE could act as an intermediate and observer during that process. Both parties have not changed their approach to the Skrunda issue. Though agreement on technical issues has already been achieved the problem of rent still remains unsolved. Mr.Zotov again connected the amount paid by the Russian party for the rent of the radar site to the terms of troops withdrawal. He said that Russia could promptly withdraw the troops and make larger investments into housing for the withdrawn servicemen or pay the rent that is "absurd" thus delaying the withdrawal. Still, he believes that a certain compromise may be achieved.Diena

The Skrunda issue was discussed by President Ulmanis with the representatives of the Union of Nationalist Organizations of Latvia. Mr.Ulmanis promised to discuss the possibility of shortening the term of the operation of the radar with Mr.Yeltsin. Still he evaluated the chances for establishing of a new shorter term are weak since the term had been agreed upon by Russia and USA. The President spoke in favor of the idea of agreement on the Skrunda issue stressing that such agreement would provide Latvia with international guarantees and control. He also noted that USA would allocate 10 mln. USD for the dismantlement of the new block of the radar station after the agreement is signed. The spokesman for LNNK stressed that only the withdrawal of Russian troops before August 31 could make further negotiations on Skrunda possible. The Popular Front spokesman Mr.Augstkalns stressed that concluding the agreement with Russia under current terms would mean the violation of the CSCE decision on the immediate and unconditional troops withdrawal from Latvia. Mr.Grinbalts of "Tevzemei un Brivibai" said that both Russia and international community should show their understanding of the problems of Latvia which could make it possible to allow the operation of Skrunde for the term not exceeding four years. He also pointed out that the President's task was the most delicate one since he had find a balance between the national interests of Latvia and the attitude of the West towards its policies regarding troops withdrawal.

The Skrunda issue was discussed by President Ulmanis with the representatives of the Union of Nationalist Organizations of Latvia. Mr.Ulmanis promised to discuss the possibility of shortening the term of the operation of the radar with Mr.Yeltsin. Still he evaluated the chances for establishing of a new shorter term are weak since the term had been agreed upon by Russia and USA. The President spoke in favor of the idea of agreement on the Skrunda issue stressing that such agreement would provide Latvia with international guarantees and control. He also noted that USA would allocate 10 mln. USD for the dismantlement of the new block of the radar station after the agreement is signed. The spokesman for LNNK stressed that only the withdrawal of Russian troops before August 31 could make further negotiations on Skrunda possible. The Popular Front spokesman Mr.Augstkalns stressed that concluding the agreement with Russia under current terms would mean the violation of the CSCE decision on the immediate and unconditional troops withdrawal from Latvia. Mr.Grinbalts of "Tevzemei un Brivibai" said that both Russia and international community should show their understanding of the problems of Latvia which could make it possible to allow the operation of Skrunde for the term not exceeding four years. He also pointed out that the President's task was the most delicate one since he had find a balance between the national interests of Latvia and the attitude of the West towards its policies regarding troops withdrawal. Diena, Neatkariga Cina

The Chairman of the NATO Military Committee Sir Richard Vincent had meetings with the Secretary of the Ministry of Defence of Latvia Mr.Andris Ligotnis and the Commander of Defence Forces of Latvia Mr.Dainis Turlais, the Chairman of the Commission for defence and Internal Affairs, and the Chairman of the Saema Mr.Gorbunovs. The latter noted that the negative experience gained by Latvia in 1939-40 showed that Russia might not fulfil its obligation. In this connection it would be desirable that CSCE or some other international body controlled the process.

The Chairman of the NATO Military Committee Sir Richard Vincent had meetings with the Secretary of the Ministry of Defence of Latvia Mr.Andris Ligotnis and the Commander of Defence Forces of Latvia Mr.Dainis Turlais, the Chairman of the Commission for defence and Internal Affairs, and the Chairman of the Saema Mr.Gorbunovs. The latter noted that the negative experience gained by Latvia in 1939-40 showed that Russia might not fulfil its obligation. In this connection it would be desirable that CSCE or some other international body controlled the process. Diena

The "Latvijas Cels" fraction decided to abandon the quota principle incorporated in the first reading of the Draft Citizenship Law. The discussion of the second reading by the Saema is scheduled to take place before Easter holidays. According to the new principle suggested by "Latvijas Cels" groups of residents to be naturalized and terms of naturalization are defined. According to the Leader of the fraction Mr.Panteleyev the groups entitled to favorable naturalization terms in accordance with the first reading will be naturalized before the elections to the Sixth Saema. The category will include spouses of citizens having been residing in Latvia for at least three years, persons having close Latvian or Liv relatives, persons that had legally entered the country before 1940 and their descendants, and persons brought to Latvia by force during German occupation and their ancestors. The total amount of people entitled to favorable naturalization terms is around 200,000. The SM SEVODNYA analyst evaluates the chances for the adoption of such version of the Citizenship Law as slim. According to her forecasts the new draft will be opposed by "Tevzemei un Brivibai", "Equal Rights", and partly by "Saskana."

The "Latvijas Cels" fraction decided to abandon the quota principle incorporated in the first reading of the Draft Citizenship Law. The discussion of the second reading by the Saema is scheduled to take place before Easter holidays. According to the new principle suggested by "Latvijas Cels" groups of residents to be naturalized and terms of naturalization are defined. According to the Leader of the fraction Mr.Panteleyev the groups entitled to favorable naturalization terms in accordance with the first reading will be naturalized before the elections to the Sixth Saema. The category will include spouses of citizens having been residing in Latvia for at least three years, persons having close Latvian or Liv relatives, persons that had legally entered the country before 1940 and their descendants, and persons brought to Latvia by force during German occupation and their ancestors. The total amount of people entitled to favorable naturalization terms is around 200,000. The SM SEVODNYA analyst evaluates the chances for the adoption of such version of the Citizenship Law as slim. According to her forecasts the new draft will be opposed by "Tevzemei un Brivibai", "Equal Rights", and partly by "Saskana." Diena, SM

The "BALTIC INDEPENDENT" journalist Tarmu Tammerks reports about a negative attitude that has developed in Estonia towards the CSCE activities in that country. Mr.Max van der Stoel has been criticized by the non-governmental Estonian Institute for Human Rights for his meetings with the head of the Narva Russian Citizens' Union Mr.Yuri Mishin and the former pro-communist major Mr.Vladimir Tchuikin. His visit to Narva was considered by the Institute as the violation of the CSCE Mandate since had contacted "immigrants and aliens". He was also criticized for not paying any attention to officially recognized ethnic minorities such as the Russian residing in the Peipusa Lake area. There were also complaints on the part of Estonians that the CSCE Mission offices do not use the Estonian language to the extend needed. The Mission has been also criticized for its policy towards the issue of retired Russian servicemen. It has been stressed that though the CSCE admits that Estonia was annexed and occupied by USSR in 1940 it still demands a permanent residence status for the occupants. The journalist also quotes the data on the average age of retired army officers currently residing in Estonia recently obtained by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the Country. According to the data a vast portion of 10,000 retired servicemen are around 40 years old and have served in commando or intelligence units. The journalists believes that granting them a permanent resident's status could help to create a powerful "fifth coliumn" in the country.

The "BALTIC INDEPENDENT" journalist Tarmu Tammerks reports about a negative attitude that has developed in Estonia towards the CSCE activities in that country. Mr.Max van der Stoel has been criticized by the non-governmental Estonian Institute for Human Rights for his meetings with the head of the Narva Russian Citizens' Union Mr.Yuri Mishin and the former pro-communist major Mr.Vladimir Tchuikin. His visit to Narva was considered by the Institute as the violation of the CSCE Mandate since had contacted "immigrants and aliens". He was also criticized for not paying any attention to officially recognized ethnic minorities such as the Russian residing in the Peipusa Lake area. There were also complaints on the part of Estonians that the CSCE Mission offices do not use the Estonian language to the extend needed. The Mission has been also criticized for its policy towards the issue of retired Russian servicemen. It has been stressed that though the CSCE admits that Estonia was annexed and occupied by USSR in 1940 it still demands a permanent residence status for the occupants. The journalist also quotes the data on the average age of retired army officers currently residing in Estonia recently obtained by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the Country. According to the data a vast portion of 10,000 retired servicemen are around 40 years old and have served in commando or intelligence units. The journalists believes that granting them a permanent resident's status could help to create a powerful "fifth coliumn" in the country. Diena

Press Review

Talks between Latvia and Russia are resumed on March 14 and will continue until March 16. The negotiations will be focused on the rent for the Skrunda radar and social guarantees for retired army officers. Mr.Vovers, the deputy-head of the latvian delegation to the talks refused to forecast their possible results. Still, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia Mr.Andreyevs said that there are 50/50 chances for the final agreement on the issues. He also assumed that the rent for the Skrunda radar might not be among the issues discussed and could be left for the presidents of the both countries to agree upon. He also suggested that certain arguable questions regarding retired servicemen could be discussed with the participation of CSCE representatives. That according to the Minister would guarantee that the problem would not influence the ratification of other agreements. Mr.Anreyevs also informed the press that according to Russian Ambassador Mr.Rannikh the schedule for the withdrawal of Russian troops had been prepared already and was at the disposal of the North-Western Group Headquarters. According to the Ambassador the scheduled will be handed over to the Latvian party upon the ratification of the agreements. Mrs.Ilga Grava, the former member of the Latvian delegation, expressed her doubts as for the possibility of the achievement of the final agreement during next round of talks. She also admitted that there was a chance of Russia coming up with additional demands again.

Talks between Latvia and Russia are resumed on March 14 and will continue until March 16. The negotiations will be focused on the rent for the Skrunda radar and social guarantees for retired army officers. Mr.Vovers, the deputy-head of the latvian delegation to the talks refused to forecast their possible results. Still, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia Mr.Andreyevs said that there are 50/50 chances for the final agreement on the issues. He also assumed that the rent for the Skrunda radar might not be among the issues discussed and could be left for the presidents of the both countries to agree upon. He also suggested that certain arguable questions regarding retired servicemen could be discussed with the participation of CSCE representatives. That according to the Minister would guarantee that the problem would not influence the ratification of other agreements. Mr.Anreyevs also informed the press that according to Russian Ambassador Mr.Rannikh the schedule for the withdrawal of Russian troops had been prepared already and was at the disposal of the North-Western Group Headquarters. According to the Ambassador the scheduled will be handed over to the Latvian party upon the ratification of the agreements. Mrs.Ilga Grava, the former member of the Latvian delegation, expressed her doubts as for the possibility of the achievement of the final agreement during next round of talks. She also admitted that there was a chance of Russia coming up with additional demands again. Diena, Labrit

The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Latvia Mr. Georgs Andreyevs stated that the main subject of his visit to Germany were the relations between the Baltic states and Russia. The German party confirmed that it would do everything to make August 31 the final date of the presence of Russian troops in Latvia. The Minister of Defence of Russia Mr.Pavel Gratchev called the position taken by Germany to be the intrusion into internal affairs of Russia. He said that Russia had not promised anybody to withdraw its troops until August 31. Mr.Andreyev also said that a visit to Moscow by the representatives of Germany, France, and Poland is scheduled for May.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Latvia Mr. Georgs Andreyevs stated that the main subject of his visit to Germany were the relations between the Baltic states and Russia. The German party confirmed that it would do everything to make August 31 the final date of the presence of Russian troops in Latvia. The Minister of Defence of Russia Mr.Pavel Gratchev called the position taken by Germany to be the intrusion into internal affairs of Russia. He said that Russia had not promised anybody to withdraw its troops until August 31. Mr.Andreyev also said that a visit to Moscow by the representatives of Germany, France, and Poland is scheduled for May. Diena

A rally organized by the Latvian Popular Front was held on the Dome Square in Riga on March 12. The participants of the event called upon the Government not to conclude any agreements on the Skrunda radar Station which would legalize its status. The position of the Latvian delegation to the talks was criticized severely. 

A rally organized by the Latvian Popular Front was held on the Dome Square in Riga on March 12. The participants of the event called upon the Government not to conclude any agreements on the Skrunda radar Station which would legalize its status. The position of the Latvian delegation to the talks was criticized severely. Diena, Neatkariga, Rita

Kaspars Kaulins, the "DIENA" columnist, analyzes the attitude of the West towards the situation in the Baltic states. He stresses that Russia is trying to re-establish its international influence and will not abandon its interests in the Baltics. The journalist quotes the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany Mr.Kinkiel who stressed that the Baltics could become a serious problem among other aspects of conflict of interests between the West and Russia. The author also stresses that the talks between Latvia and Russia are not the talks between equal parties since there are Russian troops are present on the Latvian soil.

Kaspars Kaulins, the "DIENA" columnist, analyzes the attitude of the West towards the situation in the Baltic states. He stresses that Russia is trying to re-establish its international influence and will not abandon its interests in the Baltics. The journalist quotes the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany Mr.Kinkiel who stressed that the Baltics could become a serious problem among other aspects of conflict of interests between the West and Russia. The author also stresses that the talks between Latvia and Russia are not the talks between equal parties since there are Russian troops are present on the Latvian soil. Diena

On March 11 the "Latvijas Cels" fraction had a closed meeting on the Draft Citizenship Law. It was decided not to provide the press with any specific details of the meeting. The Chairman of the Party Mr.Birkavs explained those restriction with the wish to avoid misunderstanding on the part of the both communities. He said that the amendments to the draft regarding the quota principle would be introduced in response to recommendations made by international experts. He stressed that the amendments would not mean the total abandonment of the principle but would specify it. According to the new Draft the Cabinet of Ministers will not name the number of persons to be naturalized during a coming year. The groups of inhabitants will be strictly specified instead.

On March 11 the "Latvijas Cels" fraction had a closed meeting on the Draft Citizenship Law. It was decided not to provide the press with any specific details of the meeting. The Chairman of the Party Mr.Birkavs explained those restriction with the wish to avoid misunderstanding on the part of the both communities. He said that the amendments to the draft regarding the quota principle would be introduced in response to recommendations made by international experts. He stressed that the amendments would not mean the total abandonment of the principle but would specify it. According to the new Draft the Cabinet of Ministers will not name the number of persons to be naturalized during a coming year. The groups of inhabitants will be strictly specified instead. Neatkariga

A rally organized by the Association of Independent Trade-Unions and the League of the Stateles was held on March 14 in the "1905" Park. Mr.Modris Lujans, the leader of the Association, and other speakers accused the Government in trying to split the nation into Latvians and non-Latvians instead of improving economical situation and living conditions of the poor. The participants of the rally called upon the Government members to resign since they act only for their own benefit but not for the benefit of the people.

A rally organized by the Association of Independent Trade-Unions and the League of the Stateles was held on March 14 in the "1905" Park. Mr.Modris Lujans, the leader of the Association, and other speakers accused the Government in trying to split the nation into Latvians and non-Latvians instead of improving economical situation and living conditions of the poor. The participants of the rally called upon the Government members to resign since they act only for their own benefit but not for the benefit of the people. Labrit