Regional Security Consensus Between Latvia and Sweden Affirmed by Mierina

Latvia and Sweden share strong bonds, working closely together across various collaborative efforts, including the NB8 alliance, parliamentary discussions, and mutual agreements in other aspects.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 2 . 3:50 AM

2 min read

Regional Security Shared by Latvia and Sweden - Mierina's Perspective

Regional Security Consensus Between Latvia and Sweden Affirmed by Mierina

The Latvia-Sweden relationship continues to flourish, marked by close cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. This strong bond, forged over the years, has seen significant positive evolution following Sweden's accession to NATO in 2023.

In the realm of security and defence, the relationship has deepened notably. Latvia and Sweden signed a letter of intent in June 2025 to supply Latvia with 18 Swedish Archer 8x8 wheeled artillery systems. This move aims to enhance regional security through joint military exercises, soldier training, and shared artillery capabilities starting in 2026. The cooperation also includes discussions about a joint Archer 6x6 artillery unit and leasing of systems until full delivery, highlighting a strategic defence partnership under the NATO umbrella.

The presence of Swedish troops in Latvia as part of NATO missions, and high-level visits such as King Carl XVI Gustaf’s 2025 working visit to the Latvian military base Ādaži and meetings with Latvian leaders, symbolize the strong military and political ties.

In the NB8 (Northern Baltic Eight) format and parliamentary dialogue, Latvia and Sweden actively participate in regional cooperation that includes security, economic development, and cultural exchanges. The 2025 Latvia-Sweden Defence Forum at the Latvian Embassy in Sweden exemplifies ongoing defence-related dialogue and collaboration between military and civil authorities from both countries. This forum and continued parliamentary contacts consolidate their strategic partnership and mutual interests in the Baltic Sea region.

Regarding business relations, Sweden remains Latvia’s largest foreign investor, underlining robust economic ties. The Latvian President acknowledged Sweden's significant role in the Latvian economy during the Swedish King’s 2025 visit, which also signifies continued economic cooperation and business confidence.

In culture and education, while specific recent initiatives were not detailed in the latest sources, the long-standing close ties since Latvia’s independence restoration emphasize sustained cooperation in these areas as part of the broader bilateral relationship. The historical context shows Sweden’s early support and ongoing engagement culturally and educationally since the 1990s.

Daiga Mierina, the Speaker of the Saeima in Latvia, and the Swedish Ambassador, Karin Hoglund, agreed that Sweden's NATO membership was an important milestone in bilateral relations and regional security. They also emphasized the need for the international community to constantly raise the issues of holding Russia accountable for its crimes, and finding a solution to end the war in Ukraine as soon as possible is a major global challenge.

Mierina thanked the Swedish Ambassador for her work in Latvia, and the ambassador was also active in the activities of various foundations. The ambassador noted that cooperation between the Baltic region and the Nordic countries has never been closer.

These developments reflect a comprehensive partnership aimed at regional stability and mutual growth. The strengthening Latvia-Sweden relations are a testament to the shared commitment towards a secure and prosperous Baltic Sea region.