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On Friday, January 13, Prime Minister Valdis Dombrovskis and new Ambassador of Italy to Latvia Giovanni Polizzi were of the same opinion that the European Union should take steps to convincingly restore the stability and competitiveness of the euro area.
The Prime Minister confirmed that the accession to the euro area is one of Latvia’s objectives. However, Latvia wants a sound and stable euro area in the year 2014 when we plan to joint it. It is welcome that Latvia is preparing for introduction of the single currency before taking over the EU presidency, said G.Polizzi.
Active preparations for taking over the EU presidency from Italy have been started, which will take place in the beginning of 2015. This year the discussions will also start on the priorities during the presidency. The experience of the Italian colleagues would be valuable during the period of preparation, said the Prime Minister. The Ambassador confirmed that Italy is ready to provide the necessary support to the Latvian side.
The officials were of the same opinion that both, Latvia and Italy are currently experiencing significant changes in economics, however, by taking joint steps, it is possible to achieve new and significant benefits for development and, therefore, it is essential to promote reciprocal investments.
G.Polizzi informed the Prime Minister about objectives during his term of office, emphasizing that he is willing to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries also in the area of culture by particularly fostering the interest in the Italian language in Latvia as well as to encourage people in Italy to learn the Latvian language.
Photos of the meeting: http://www.flickr.com/photos/valstskanceleja/sets/72157628850304281/
Indicators of trade between Latvia and Italy:
In Q1-Q3, 2011, the trade turnover of Latvia and Italy amounted to EUR 279.29 million, ranking Italy the 12th among the foreign trade partners of Latvia. Compared to the trade turnover in respective period of the previous year, it has increased by 10.1% or EUR 25.40 million. The main export goods of Latvia to Italy in Q1-Q3 of 2011 were timber and timber products, mineral products, machinery and mechanisms, electric equipment, metals and metal products.
Supplementary information:
Mārtiņš Panke
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Phone: +371 67082865 / +371 26556965
E-mail: Martins.Panke@mk.gov.lv
Information prepared by:
Diana Germane
Consultant of the Communication Department
State Chancellery
Phone: +371 67082922 +371 67082922
E-mail: diana.germane@mk.gov.lv
http://twitter.com/brivibas36
www.flickr.com/photos/valstskanceleja
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