President: To pride more than modesty
“A new generation has grown up, which knows authoritarianism only in history books and foreign news programs, not in its everyday life. A generation has grown up that is not afraid of its opinion. A generation that is not afraid of the truth. This generation considers the independence, freedom and democracy of our country for self-evident values,” said the president.
Although freedom may seem self-evident, it is not, and the history of our country proves it, the president said.
“Our freedom is joining the European Union and NATO 20 years ago as a new confirmation that we not only want, but also can belong to the family of democratic countries. Our freedom is also the Baltic countries’ firm support for Ukraine – this is today’s Baltic way. Our freedom is not only the opportunity to gather and criticize when something is not right. Our freedom is also our responsibility to protect our homes, to protect our children’s opportunity to live in our Latvia,” said the president.
He invited everyone to allow themselves to be happy today during the holiday. “In free, independent and democratic Latvia, each of us can choose freely. Everyone can live and celebrate as they want. And that is a very great value.
I wish that every Latvian patriot today not only sees joy, but also creates joy and shows joy to those who, for some reason, cannot find it themselves.
Joy for our country and our Latvian people. May there be more laughter than tears. To touch more than care. And especially today – let pride more than modesty. Pride in our red and white flag, pride in our land and our people of Latvia,” said the president in his congratulation.
Prime Minister: We are free people in a free country
On the other hand, Prime Minister Evika Siliņa (“New Unity”) emphasized that the declaration “On the restoration of the independence of the Republic of Latvia” adopted by the Supreme Council 34 years ago opened the opportunity for the people of Latvia to once again fully decide on their future. “This decision made it possible to regain our greatest sanctity – an independent state. It confirmed the unequivocal desire of our society to live in freedom. It was a joint victory.”
“We are free people in a free country. It is good to realize this and say it out loud. Freedom is all around us – in parks, homes, schools, cities, villages and countryside. In independent Latvia, it is much easier to be free inside as well, allowing freedom to fill our hearts and our minds said the Prime Minister.
“Freedom gives strength and courage to be used so that we can all together protect and develop Latvia with its wonderful people, beautiful nature and eternal values created by the nation. That is why 20 years ago we were able to achieve the goal of becoming a full member of the European Union and NATO. That is why today we support The people of Ukraine, in which we see ourselves, our dreams and hopes. Freedom also brings happiness, ease and human joy. So let’s rejoice and celebrate!” invited by the Prime Minister, expressing her gratitude to everyone who was brave in their decisions, defended Latvia’s interests, made sacrifices for Latvia, its independence and future.
