Addressing the country’s population, the president noted that in the 34 years since the restoration of independence, a new generation has grown up that knows about authoritarianism only from history textbooks, takes freedom and democracy for granted and is not afraid to express its opinion.
“While freedom may seem self-evident, it is not. The history of our country proves this”, reminded E. Rinkevičius and emphasized that freedom is Latvia’s entry into the European Union and NATO 20 years ago, the strong support of the Baltic countries for Ukraine, the opportunity to gather and criticize when something goes wrong, and – that itself is the responsibility to protect one’s home and Latvian children’s opportunities to live in their country.
“We care about that. That’s why we work. And that’s exactly why we’re celebrating, too. If an independent Latvia is important to us, we must allow ourselves to be happy. Therefore, today, May 4, I invite all patriots in Latvia and beyond to celebrate the anniversary of the restoration of independence, he said. – In free, independent and democratic Latvia, each of us can choose freely, everyone can live and celebrate as they want, and this is a very great value.”
E. Rinkevičius thanked the deputies who voted for the restoration of Latvia’s independence on May 4, 1990, and wished all patriots to also create joy for others.
“And especially today – let there be more pride than modesty!” The pride of ours […] flag, our country and the people of Latvia”, said the president.
Various official and cultural events are planned in Latvia on Saturday.
Tags: anniversary restoration independence Latvia president proud country
