On Wednesday, 21 January, deputy prime minister – minister of national defence, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, has met Andris Sprūds, the minister of defence of Latvia, in Warsaw.

Matters of regional security were discussed, including the situation on the eastern flank of NATO and on the Baltic Sea. Possibilities for further strengthening regional security and ways to develop bilateral military cooperation were also on the agenda.

The deputy prime minister has noted that a new document, regulating military cooperation, is being worked on.

- We have decided to work on a new memorandum – an agreement between our countries, a Memorandum of Understanding regarding security policy. I think we will be ready to sign it within a few weeks, and I would like to sign this agreement together with the minister and announce an even closer cooperation – said the Polish minister of national defence.

The ministers have also summated the activities of battalion groups present in Poland and Latvia, and the creation of which has been decided on the NATO summit in Poland. 

- The presence of NATO troops on our soil is a great strategic success. It shows that we act together and can strengthen security on the eastern flank of NATO together. It is a practical cooperation. Fourteen countries are present in Latvia. Poland is a respected and valued ally. (…). It is a success, but we cannot stop there – said minister Sprūds.

- Poland is one of the five most important countries in this group of fourteen. We want to increase our capabilities and our presence in Latvia. The presence of the Polish Military Contingent has been extended, and I hope it will be continued with increased capabilities. (…). Poland hosts a group of allies as well. It was a very important decision. It shows that the Alliance is strong and united – concluded the deputy prime minister W. Kosiniak – Kamysz.

>>> GALLERY – The meeting of the ministers of defence of Poland and Latvia