By Muhammad Sohail
On Thursday, 3 July 2025, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže visited Prague for the first time on a working visit. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský discussed with her the current security developments in Europe, the involvement of Czech troops in the Baltic states, support for Ukraine, and defence, security and economic cooperation.
During their meeting, the ministers confirmed the closeness of the Czech and Latvian positions. They expressed their interest in deepening cooperation in European policies as well as in the area of defence and security. “In a Europe shaken by violations of international law, Latvia plays a challenging role on NATO’s eastern flank. Members of our armed forces are assisting in this effort. I am very proud that Czech soldiers are participating and will continue to participate in NATO’s forward presence in the Baltic states,” said Minister Lipavský.
Latvia appreciates Czechia’s long-term contribution to NATO’s collective defence in the form of regular deployments of Czech Army soldiers to bases in Latvia and Lithuania and the Czech Air Force’s participation in air policing of the Baltic states on the Alliance’s eastern flank. The ministers agreed on the need to continue providing comprehensive assistance to Ukraine, which has been defending itself against Russian aggression for four years. Both countries have been making every effort since the beginning of the invasion. At the same time, it is necessary to increase defence budgets.
The ministers also agreed on current issues and EU enlargement, as well as on supporting the increase in mutual trade. The latter is growing every year, and there are opportunities for Czech companies in many sectors in Latvia (e.g. transport, defence, but also research and innovation). There is regular flight between Prague and Riga, which contributes significantly to the growth of trade and tourism.
The heads of diplomacy also agreed to continue expert consultations on foreign and security policy, public administration, cyber security and hybrid threats.
