Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia
January 13, 2010
Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins is gratified about the Government decision to support an increased civil engagement and the implementation of development assistance measures in Afghanistan. This decision will allow Latvia to continue efforts initiated in Afghanistan for the strengthening of the rule of law and the judiciary as well as local administrative capacity that will provide an opportunity for the Afghans themselves in the near future to assume responsibility and to ensure order in their country.
At the sitting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 12 January, the Government supported the allocation of funds in the amount of 10,000 LVL for implementing a development co-operation project in Afghanistan, as well as for the participation by two employees of the Ministry of Interior system in the European Union Police Mission in Afghanistan (EUPOL Afghanistan).
This Government decision is a response to the call by the international community for an increased civil and military engagement in Afghanistan. On the Foreign Minister’s initiative, the possibilities for Latvia’s contribution were assessed, and the Government has agreed on an optimal solution within current financial possibilities.
Country reports on further strengthening of engagement will be reviewed during the upcoming high level conference on Afghanistan, on 28 January in London.
