Concert and Diplomacy Highlights
On the occasion of Latvia’s 106th Independence Anniversary, the Latvian Embassy in the Netherlands organized a memorable reception and concert at the stunning Nieuwe Kerk in The Hague. H.E. Ambassador Solvita Āboltiņa, marking her first National Day celebration in the Netherlands since her accreditation in March, delivered an inspiring speech highlighting Latvia’s achievements, shared values with the Netherlands, and the strength of their bilateral partnership.
A Warm Welcome and Reflection on Shared Experiences
Ambassador Āboltiņa welcomed attendees with warmth and gratitude. Reflecting on her experiences in the Netherlands, she remarked on the Dutch passion for cycling and the stunning variety of flowers that connect with Latvians’ love of planting and nature.
Security and Shared Global Values
The Ambassador’s speech emphasized the importance of security as a cornerstone of Latvia’s international engagement. She marked the 1000th day since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine with a moment of silence, honoring the courage of the Ukrainian people.
She highlighted Latvia’s 20-year membership in NATO and the European Union, as well as the 10th anniversary of adopting the euro, underscoring how these strategic choices have bolstered Latvia’s security and credibility. “Latvia and the Netherlands share common values and a deep understanding of the Russian aggression’s threat to European and global security,” she stated, reaffirming unwavering support for Ukraine.
The Ambassador also recognized the Netherlands’ contributions to NATO’s Multinational Brigade in Lithuania and expressed gratitude for the alliance’s collective commitment to deterrence and defense. She reiterated shared concerns regarding the Middle East, advocating for dialogue and peacebuilding efforts.
Economic Partnerships and Sustainability Initiatives
Turning to economic collaboration, Ambassador Āboltiņa celebrated the partnership between Latvia and the Netherlands. She noted the Netherlands’ position among Latvia’s top trading and investment partners, a reflection of the mutual trust and synergy between the two nations.
Latvia’s diverse exports, from anti-reflective glass protecting Dutch museum artworks to high-reliability routers and food products, were highlighted as contributions to the Dutch market. Ambassador Āboltiņa also acknowledged Dutch companies thriving in Latvia, such as Brabantia, Pharmeko, and Royal Legro, praising their role in creating a strong business ecosystem.
Sustainability emerged as a key theme, with examples of innovative projects such as:
- Van Oord’s collaboration with Liepāja to develop a port for offshore wind energy projects.
- Fokker Next Gen’s partnership with Latvia to pioneer emission-free air travel.
- Ingka Investments’ expansion in Latvia, focusing on sustainable forest management.
“It is the shared spirit of small countries achieving grand things that truly connects us,” the Ambassador remarked, celebrating the potential for future collaboration.
Concluding her speech, Ambassador Āboltiņa underscored the determination of the Latvian people, with music serving as a beacon through challenges. She introduced the evening’s performers, Latvian-Ukrainian musicians Katrīna Gupalo and Edgars Vilcāns. Katrīna, a celebrated composer, pianist, and singer, is known for her captivating performances, including her participation in Latvia’s Eurovision selection. Edgars, a distinguished jazz pianist and producer, has used his music to support Ukraine since relocating to Latvia following the Russian invasion.
The evening concluded with a moving performance by the duo. The Ambassador’s closing remarks in Latvian, addressed to the Latvian community in the Netherlands, further highlighted the importance of unity and shared identity.
