The Swedish government has given the armed forces an official task to prepare for the military presence in Latvia / Diena

Kristerson informed that in the conversation with the Prime Minister of Latvia, the main focus will be on cooperation in the Nordic and Baltic region, the European Union (EU) and NATO. Christerson thanked Latvia for supporting Sweden to join NATO. The parties also discussed common security problems, noting the potential of Latvia and Sweden for wider economic cooperation.

The Prime Minister of Sweden mentioned that he was actively involved in politics in the 80s of the last century, at a time when solidarity with the “brave freedom fighters” in Latvia and other Baltic countries was an important part of Sweden’s political identity at that time. He emphasized that after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the restoration of diplomatic relations between Latvia and Sweden was an important priority.

“Sweden was one of the first countries to establish a diplomatic presence in the Baltic states, confirming our commitment to promote freedom on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Today, we are further strengthening bilateral relations between Latvia and Sweden,” Kristerson emphasized.

He noted that the main priority of both Sweden and Latvia is to support Ukraine’s struggle for freedom. In view of the intensive Russian air and missile attacks on the Ukrainian population and critical infrastructure, in his opinion, EU member states and NATO allies should consider all available options to provide Ukraine with a larger number of ammunition and anti-aircraft defenses. He also mentioned the approved US aid package for Ukraine, which is a welcome sign of US commitment to support Ukraine. He emphasized that the security of Ukraine is also the security of the EU and the USA.

The Swedish Prime Minister emphasized that the Baltic Sea region is affected by Russia’s hybrid war, including cyber attacks, disinformation, forced migration, attacks on critical infrastructure. He pointed out that both Latvia and Sweden take these threats seriously.

He pointed out that the representatives of Latvia and Sweden are participating in the cyber defense exercise “Locked Shield”, which is taking place in Tallinn, Estonia. The Prime Minister of Sweden said that for almost two years, Sweden has been closely cooperating with NATO to ensure the military integration of the Swedish armed forces into the alliance. He emphasized that the Joint Declaration of Military Integration will be signed between Sweden and NATO on Thursday, thus Sweden has formally concluded this integration.

“Sweden is ready to take responsibility for collective deterrence and defense. A few months ago, I announced that Sweden is considering sending a reduced-sized battalion to Latvia. [..] We are ready to contribute to NATO’s airspace defense and European air defense,” Christerson said.

He emphasized that on Thursday morning, the government instructed the Swedish armed forces to plan and prepare for the Swedish mechanized battalion of a reduced size to join the ground forces in Latvia. It is expected that the first mechanized units will arrive in Latvia at the beginning of next year. The Swedish mechanized battalion will also include “CV90” infantry fighting vehicles and “Leopard 2” tanks.

“The assembly of the forces looks very good. People like the idea of ​​participating in the mission in Latvia. In Sweden, there is great interest and a clear motivation to participate and contribute. Together with our Latvian friends and colleagues, we make the Nordic countries and the Baltic region and the whole of NATO much safer,” he emphasized Christerson.

The Prime Minister of Latvia emphasized that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in 2022 has significantly changed the security situation in Europe. She emphasized that Latvia appreciates Sweden’s readiness to contribute to collective deterrence and defense. Silina said that the security of the Baltic Sea is much more important than before.

“We appreciate Sweden’s decision to send its contingent to the NATO battle group as part of the allied forces. We are honored and ready to receive. We work together for common security. We look forward to close cooperation with Sweden in preparation for participation in the NATO summit in Washington in July. Latvia has four priorities – strengthening deterrence and defense, implementing regional defense plans, supporting the development of military industry, limiting Russia,” said the Prime Minister of Latvia.

She emphasized that Latvia is interested in attracting more Swedish investments, especially in port industry projects, renewable energy, digital and military industry. Silina emphasized that Russia does not give up its imperialist ambitions, so developing military capabilities and industry together is becoming more and more important.