Foreign ministers from Latvia and Israel convene in Rīga for discussions
In a recent development, Israeli Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid (referred to as Sa'ar in the bullet points), paid a visit to Latvia and Lithuania. During his visit, Sa'ar emphasized Israel's unique position as the only democracy in the Middle East and its only true ally in the region, sharing values and challenges with European nations.
Sa'ar also highlighted the threat posed by Iran's ballistic missiles to countries like Latvia and the other Baltic states. He described the ongoing conflict as a global war between the free world and the axis of radical evil in Iran, which is supported by an authoritarian axis including China, Russia, and North Korea.
Latvia's Foreign Minister, Baiba Braže, spoke at a press conference following the meeting. Braže reiterated Latvia's position on several issues related to Israel, aligning with the European Union's stance. This includes supporting EU sanctions against Iran aimed at reducing its support for Russia, its nuclear program, and hostile regional activities. Braže also called on Israel to stop escalating the conflict to prevent wider unforeseen consequences.
Regarding ceasefires and hostages, no specific information on Latvia's position was found in the search results. However, Latvia’s approach tends to emphasize de-escalation and caution to avoid broader destabilization in the Middle East. There is also no direct mention of Latvia addressing the Gaza situation or humanitarian issues related to hostages in the provided results.
In terms of cooperation with Israel, Latvia is part of the Baltic states whose political leadership, including Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, have been engaging more closely. Israel seeks dependable allies in the Baltic region amid complex EU politics, suggesting Latvia maintains or is strengthening diplomatic ties with Israel despite criticism of conflict escalation.
Sa'ar noted that the fate of the civilian population in Gaza is a concern to the people of Latvia, as emphasized by Braže. This reflects Latvia’s cautious but firm pro-EU stance promoting sanctions and de-escalation, balanced with continued diplomatic relations with Israel.
- The Israeli Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid (Sa'ar), discussed with Latvia's Foreign Minister, Baiba Braže, the threat posed by Iran's ballistic missiles, positioning it as part of a global war between the free world and the axis of radical evil, including Iran, China, Russia, and North Korea.
- Latvia, as part of the Baltic states, is strengthening diplomatic ties with Israel, prioritizing de-escalation and caution to maintain its pro-EU stance, while also showing concern for the civilian population in Gaza,Aligning themselves with EU sanctions against Iran, aimed at curtailing its support for Russia, its nuclear program, and hostile regional activities.
