State President Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga and Prime Minister Andris Bērziņš met with the delegation of the US Congress - David Dreier, E. Clay Shaw Jr., Lucille Roybal- Allard, Pete Sessions, Johnny Isakson, Grace Napolitano, Anders Crenshaw, Rick Boucher.
During the discussion with the President the delegation expressed their surprise at what they had seen in Estonia and Latvia and pointed out that a unique spirit of freedom and development was felt in the Baltic States. They strongly supported the movement of Latvia towards the implementation of its external policy aims as well as thanked Latvia for its support to the USA in fighting international terrorism. The President confirmed that Latvia would continue to be a loyal ally of the United States and it was interested in continuing the co-operation with the USA on different levels.
Concerning the bilateral co-operation between Latvia and the USA, the President stressed that the Baltic-US Charter had proved itself to be an excellent tool in expanding both the political and practical dialogue between the parties. Congress representatives appreciated the rapid economic growth of Latvia and stated the interest of the USA to promote trade between Latvia and the United States. The President informed the delegation about her support to the development of small and medium-sized business and told the Congress representatives about the recent activities of business women in Latvia. Latvia also received recognition concerning social integration with the comment that a lot had been done for the society to become harmonious and avoid conflicts. The parties also discussed IT and e-administration development in the country.
During his meeting with the delegation of the US Congress the Prime Minister of Latvia reminded that Latvia and the USA are linked with the history of 80-years long diplomatic relationship. The Prime Minister stressed that Latvia, as a member of the EU will help in strengthening the EU and the USA cooperation as European historic experience determines the significance of the US and European partnership.