Yesterday, May 20, official Nordic representations in Latvia and more than 300 distinguished guests gathered for the joint Nordic National Day celebration in the courtyard of Riga Cathedral.
The opening speech was given by H.E. Mrs. Anne Saloranta, Ambassador of Finland to Latvia, the country holding the Presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers. In her address, she reaffirmed the continuous support of the Nordic countries to for Ukraine and praised the long-standing, close cooperation with Latvia:
“Nordic cooperation is not just a political framework. It is a reflection on how like-minded nations can work together, share knowledge, resources and expertise not only to secure their own futures, but also to advance the common good of international communities. [..] In today’s turbulent world the Nordic spirit grounded in trust, equality and solidarity is not just relevant – it is essential.”
The ambassador A. Saloranta also paid a fond farewell to the Swedish Ambassador H.E. Karin Höglund and the Director of the Nordic Council of Ministers, Stefan Eriksson, who will take up their posts as Swedish Ambassador to Italy and Kazakhstan respectively when their term of office ends this year.
The event was open only to invited guests, including ambassadors, ministers and other Latvian government officials, as well as representatives of embassies and civil society organisations. This is an annual joint celebration marking the national day of each Nordic country.
Photos: Vilnis Pļaviņš
