Flickr
On Friday, August 29, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa welcomed European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen to Latvia. During the visit, the two officials visited the company Origin Robotics, where they explored advanced drone technologies, and also met at the Cabinet of Ministers to discuss strengthening the eastern border, developing the military industry, and other current issues.
“In Latvia, high-quality drones are produced that help Ukraine defend itself against the aggressor every day. Origin Robotics is a vivid example of how European Union funding support can be used to develop technologies that strengthen our collective security. Latvia is a knowledge and innovation leader in modern drone technologies, and our defense industry continues to develop rapidly,” said E. Siliņa during her visit to the drone manufacturing facility.
The EC President also highly praised the achievements of Origin Robotics, acknowledging Latvia’s significant role in the development of drone technology.
At the Cabinet of Ministers, the officials discussed strengthening the EU’s eastern border, developing the military industry, supporting Ukraine, EU financial instruments, and other issues.
“Russia’s war also has a significant impact on Latvia’s economy, especially in the eastern regions. Latvia has already invested several hundred million euros in strengthening the security of the eastern border and has approved a border-region economic development plan worth more than 640 million euros. It is important that these efforts are recognized at the European Union level as well, and we look forward with hope to the next multiannual budget,” said the Latvian Prime Minister after the meeting.
E. Siliņa thanked U. von der Leyen for her solidarity and clear stance on issues that are critically important for Latvia and all of Europe. Latvia is the first of several countries the EC President will visit in the coming days.
