Latvian and Lithuanian Foreign Ministers to present the Balts’ Award

On 22 September 2020 – Balts Unity Day – the Foreign Minister of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs, shall be welcoming the Foreign Minister of Lithuania, Linas Linkevičius, on a working visit. During their meeting, the Foreign Ministers will discuss bilateral and regional cooperation, the latest international developments and the state of affairs in Belarus, as well as giving a joint interview to be aired on Latvian Television.

In an official ceremony, the Foreign Ministers will present the annual Balts’ Award bestowed by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Latvia and Lithuania for outstanding achievements in research and fostering of the Balts’ heritage. The first award was presented in 2018. The monetary value of the award is EUR 3000, co-funded by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Latvia and Lithuania.

During his visit, the Foreign Minister of Lithuania will meet with the President of Latvia, Egils Levits.

Background information

Balts Unity Day is celebrated in Latvia and Lithuania on 22 September to commemorate the victory of the Semigallians and Samogitians over the Livonian Brothers of Sword in the Battle of Saule in 1236. 

Event for the media

• 12.00 – The Balts’ Award presentation ceremony (Lobby of the Foreign Ministry building. Languages: Latvian-Lithuanian)

Photo and video opportunity

Members of the media accredited with the Latvian agencies and institutions are asked to register their participation not later than 9:00 on 22 September by contacting the Media Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please plan your arrival at the Ministry not later than 30 minutes before the event is scheduled to begin.