Ambassador Kaspars Ozoliņš meets The Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Senator, Speaker of the Senate of Canada

On 23 November 2023, Ambassador of Latvia Kaspars Ozoliņš together with the Ambassadors of Estonia and Lithuania had a courtesy call with The Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Senator, Speaker of the Senate of Canada.

Speaker Gagné welcomed the close relations between Canada and the Baltic States and noted that international security and, in particular, war in Ukraine remain on the top of Canada’s agenda.

Ambassadors of the Baltic States expressed their appreciation on Canada’s contribution to the security of the Baltic Region and noted that the presence of Canadian armed forces in Latvia promoted the security of the whole region. Ambassadors highlighted the importance to continue unwavering support to Ukraine in face of the unremitting Russian aggression.

Ambassador Kaspars Ozoliņš pointed out the importance of interparliamentary dialogue. He also highlighted cooperation with Canada in multilateral fora to promote rules-based international order. Ambassador informed that Latvia had recently launched its campaign for an elected seat at the United Nations Security Council in 2026-2027 and noted that Latvia would highly value Canada's support to its candidacy.

Ambassadors of Estonia and Lithuania welcomed the opening of Canadian embassies in their countries this year and expressed their belief that it will help further expand economic cooperation with Canada. Cyber security, innovative technologies, alternative energy sources and transition to green technologies were highlighted by the three Ambassadors as other areas of extended cooperation with Canada.

The Honourable Raymonde Gagné has held the position of the Speaker of the Senate since 12 May, 2023 when her predecessor, The Honourable George Furey, retired.