AMBASSADOR'S INTRODUCTION

  Mr. Janis Lovniks, The Ambassador of Latvia to China

Speech of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Latvia to the Peoples’ Republic of China Mr. Janis Lovniks on the occasion of the National Day of the Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia, 18 November, 2007

Honourable Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs,

Head of the State Chancellery,

State Secretary,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen!

Every year cold month of November is the time when hearts of every Latvian are filled with warmth and pride. It is because on 18 November 1918 the independent Republic of Latvia was proclaimed – a country which one of the most beautiful in the world and whose people are one of the most hard working among others.

This year, few days before this important date – the 89th National Independence Anniversary – we:  Latvians and friends of Latvia have gathered here in this cosy reception hall of Novotel Peace Hotel in order to have pleasant time together with some Latvian music and one of the most beautiful sceneries of our country in background, as well as to establish new contacts or refresh the existing ones.

It is my honour to have the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Mr. Kong Quan, the Head of the State Chancellery of Latvia Mrs. Gunta Veismane and the State Secretary of the Ministry of Economics of Latvia Mr. Kaspars Gerhards among the special guests of our reception.

The presence of so many high officials and delegation led by them in the celebration of the independence day of Latvia is very meaningful - this year there has been a significant increase in the intensity of Latvia – China bilateral relationship. One of the most important visits to be mentioned is Latvian Prime Minster’s Mr. Aigars Kalvitis participation in international forums in Dalian and Xiamen, meeting with the Prime Minister of China Mr. We Jiabao and vice minister Wu Yi; bilateral political and security consultation in Riga and Beijing led by the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Mr. Kong Quan and Political director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia Mr. Ilgvars Klava.

Last but not the least, yesterday the 6th session of Latvia- China joint committee’s work was concluded with productive results. Due to that we have the delegation of Latvian officials, experts and businessmen led by the State Secretary of the Ministry of Economics of Latvia Mr. Kaspars Gerhards among us today at the celebration.

I am convinced that also in this reception hall there will be a constructive and informal atmosphere, which has always been present in Latvia – China bilateral relationships, and cordiality and openness, which is characteristic when good friends meet.

Now we play national anthems of the Republic of Latvia and People’s Republic of China!

- God bless Latvia!

- Hundred years for Latvia - China relationship!