Europe Day, dedicated to peace and unity, is widely celebrated in Latvia

This is a special time, because 20 years ago, together with nine other countries, Latvia joined the EU. Since then, the EU has been flying alongside our country’s flag in many places, but the ninth of May has traditionally become a holiday date on which we celebrate Europe Day.

Even today, events, concerts and other activities are organized all over Latvia.

European picnic near the Saeima House. Everyone was invited to enjoy the national delicacies prepared by the countries. Among the guests were also representatives of various embassies and nationalities.

“The EU is a message for peace that began in 1950. In his declaration, Robert Schuman presented the idea that war in Europe was impossible. We must believe this message! About human rights and values ​​around the world,” said the Belgian ambassador to Latvia, Karls Pēters.

Anatoly Kutsevol

Ambassador of Ukraine to Latvia

I am happy to celebrate this day with the other EU member states. This day is very important for us since we became a candidate country. My citizens are waiting for the day when we too will be in the EU. I started this morning by raising the EU flag at my embassy and I promised that this flag will fly when we become a member state of the EU.

Freedom, travel, education – these are just some of the values ​​that now unite EU citizens. Surveys show that the majority of Latvian residents positively assess Latvia’s membership in the Union. But it is especially important for young people.

Indra Trofimoviča, director of the Cultural Center of the LU, says: “In the beginning, we all wanted to join the EU and it seemed like manna had fallen from the sky. And when we are, we are used to it and do not even feel that the manna has really fallen. Let’s compare how it was before. Now – something is not. But the young man has nothing to compare with. We need to take this feeling from young people and see what we can get and what we have got.”

Schoolgirl Maija told TV3 News: “In my opinion, the EU has a sense of security, that we can feel safe. Common values ​​we adhere to. Most of all, that we are open and live freely and don’t worry.”

On the other hand, student Kristaps said: “EU means freedom, democracy. For me, it is unity, going together towards a goal so that we can develop as a country. Lots of different programs for young people, it’s a fantastic opportunity to be appreciated.”

EU membership is not just a geographical designation. It is a confirmation of the will to stand up for common values, to respect and protect human dignity, to stand up for freedom and solidarity, as well as to cultivate common traditions.

This year, a new Europe Day tradition was started – “Handshake for Europe”. The tradition is said to have originated in Ireland and is based on the idea that a handshake is a symbol of respect, cooperation and equality.

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