Riga, August 24, 2016 – U.S. Congressional Delegation led by Representative Chris Gibson visited Latvia on August 24. The delegation also included Representatives Paul Cook, Austin Scott, Dan Lipinski, Rich Nugent, Chris Stewart, and Dan Benishek. The visit is part of a larger trip, which also included stops in Israel and Poland. While in Latvia, …

Riga, June 16, 2016 – Today, Nancy Pettit, United States Ambassador to Latvia, will host a reception to honor this year’s exchange program recipients for the Fulbright, Humphrey, and Benjamin Franklin fellowships, as well as the Studies of the United States Institute (SUSI), Teaching Excellence and Achievement (TEA) program, Association of Holocaust Organizations (AHO) Holocaust …

Riga, June 14, 2016 – The U.S. Embassy has nominated Lāsma Stabiņa as Latvia’s 2016 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Hero for her exceptional commitment to preventing human trafficking. Ms. Stabiņa’s efforts to attract international funding for trafficking prevention activities and her public-private partnership promotion efforts contributed enormously to preventing human trafficking in Latvia. Today, Ambassador …

Riga, June 6, 2016 – Ambassador Nancy Pettit will visit Latgale today to participate in U.S.-NATO Dragoon Ride II events with Latvian Minister of Defense Raimonds Bergmanis and Daugavpils Mayor Jānis Lāčplēsis in Daugavpils. She will also visit Silmala to help launch a renovation project funded by the United States European Command (USEUCOM), in partnership …

Riga, May 23, 2016 – Ambassador Nancy Pettit will visit Sigulda today to meet with Mayor Uģis Mitrevics and City Council officials, engage with local business representatives, and hold a roundtable with students at youth NGO Mērķis. During her visit, Ambassador Pettit will also tour the Ligatne Nature Reserve (Līgatnes dabas takas).

Riga, May 20, 2016 – The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the launch of this year’s competition for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for academic year 2017-2018. The Embassy encourages all qualified students and scholars to apply. The Fulbright Program was established in 1946 under legislation introduced by …

Riga, May 17, 2016 – To mark International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biophobia (IDAHOT), the U.S. Embassy in Riga will fly the rainbow flag at the Embassy building May 17 and 18. Representatives from Mozaika, a prominent local advocacy group for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) people, will join Ambassador Nancy Pettit at the …

Riga, May 5, 2016 – On Friday, May 6, U.S. Embassy Riga Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean, Ministry of Health Deputy State Secretary Kārlis Ketners and State Emergency Medical Service (SEMS) Director Sarmīte Villere will participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion an emergency vehicle garage at the District Ambulance Support Station (DASS) ‘Krasts’ …

Riga, April 25, 2016 – U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) in the Bureau of Europe and Eurasian Affairs Kathleen Kavalec will make an official visit to Riga, April 25-27. DAS Kavalec is responsible for Russia and for Policy and Regional Affairs. During her visit, DAS Kavalec will meet with government officials, cultural figures, and civil …

Riga, April 22, 2016 – On Saturday April 23, U.S. soldiers from 3-227 Aviation Unit stationed at Lielvārde military base together with Michigan National Guardsmen and Latvian National Guardsmen (Zemessardze) from Cesu Battalion will clean the Ligatne Nature Reserve (Līgatnes dabas takas) as part of the Big Cleanup Day (Liela talka). Media are invited to …

Riga, April 18, 2016 – On Tuesday April 19, the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG-75) will arrive in Riga, Latvia for a scheduled port visit. The port visit serves to enhance U.S.-Latvian relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous Baltic region and Europe. The ship’s …

Riga, April 18, 2016 – U.S. Special Envoy Nicholas Dean will make an official visit to Latvia April 18 – 20 to discuss issues related to the Holocaust. He will meet with government officials, members of Parliament, academics, and the Latvian Jewish community. For more information about Special Envoy Dean, please see: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/biog/231276.htm For more information …

Riga, April 7, 2016 – U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Nancy Pettit will make an official visit to Liepāja and Saldus, April 7-8. In Liepāja, Ambassador Pettit will meet with the Mayor of Liepāja, Uldis Sesks, and Liepāja City Council officials and will participate in the commemoration ceremony to honor the U.S. airmen lost when their …

Riga, April 7, 2016 – U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Nancy Pettit will make an official visit to Liepāja and Saldus, April 7-8. In Liepāja, Ambassador Pettit will meet with the Mayor of Liepāja, Uldis Sesks, and Liepāja City Council officials and will participate in the commemoration ceremony to honor the U.S. airmen lost when their …

Riga, March 15, 2016 – The U.S. Embassy in Latvia is proud to welcome Soul Street Dance for a five-day visit to Latvia. The Houston-based group is a dynamic premier dance company that has performed both internationally and around the United States. Their technical and artistic skills, stage presence and wit allow them to push …

Riga, March 15, 2016 – U.S. Embassy Riga Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean, Latvian Minister of Health Guntis Belēvičs and Director of State Emergency Medical Service Sarmīte Villere will participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for a Civic Engagement Project at Riga Regional District Ambulance Support Station (DASS) “Centrs” on Duntes iela in Riga at 14:00 on …

Riga, March 8, 2016 – Chair of Youngstown State University’s Politics and International Relations Department, Dr. Paul Sracic, will visit Latvia March 9-12 to discuss the upcoming U.S. presidential elections. Dr. Sracic will give two public lectures in Riga, both of which are open to the public and free of charge: Riga Stradins University (RSU), …

Riga, February 17, 2016 – The U.S. Sixth Fleet Commander Vice Admiral James G. Foggo, III, will visit Latvia on February 17-18. During the visit VADM Foggo will meet with the Chief of Defense, Lieutenant General Raimonds Graube, and other Latvian Ministry of Defense officials to discuss the annual multinational exercise BALTOPS and regional security …

Riga, February 5, 2016 – Ambassador Nancy Pettit will make an official visit to Jelgava on February 5 where she will meet with Jelgava Mayor Andris Rāviņš and City Council officials, as well as leading local figures in the fields of education and civic society. Ambassador Pettit will also tour the renewable energy heating plant …

Riga, January 29, 2016 – Ambassador Nancy Pettit will visit Bauska today to meet with Mayor Raitis Ābelnieks and city officials, tour cultural sites, and inaugurate the new Start Strong Youth Center. Start Strong is a youth career development program that provides students with the necessary skills to compete in Latvia’s competitive job market. During …

Riga, January 22, 2016 – Ambassador Nancy Pettit continued the second day of her official two-day visit to Daugavpils by meeting with border authorities at the Border Guard Detention Facility. Ambassador Pettit also visited the Polish Cultural Center before touring the American Space at the Latgale Central Library.

Riga, January 21, 2016 – Ambassador Nancy Pettit will make an official visit to Daugavpils January 21-22. Ambassador Petit will meet with Daugavpils Mayor Jānis Lāčplēsis and City Council officials, as well as leading local figures in the fields of education and culture. She will also visit several museums in Daugavpils, as well as the …

Riga, January 20, 2016 – The Deputy Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe, Major General William Gayler, and the Deputy Commanding General of the 4th Infantry Division, Brigadier General James Mingus, will visit Riga January 20-21. Major General Gayler and Brigadier General Mingus will meet with the Latvian Chief of Defense and Lieutenant General Raimonds …

Riga, January 12, 2016 – The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has awarded two construction contracts worth 8 million euros to local companies SIA Arčers and SIA Merks to improve facilities at Latvia’s Adaži Military Base and Lielvarde Air Base. These U.S.-funded European Reassurance Initiative (ERI) projects, the first to be awarded in the …

Riga, November 25, 2015 – The Commander of NATO’s Supreme Allied Command for Europe and U.S. European Command, General Philip M. Breedlove, will visit Latvia November 25-26, 2015 as part of a regional trip. General Breedlove will be awarded with the Commander of the Grand Cross of the Order of Viesturs by Latvian President Raimonds …

Riga, November 24, 2015 – Today, U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Nancy Pettit is visiting Valmiera and Rāmkalni. In Valmiera, she will meet with Mayor Jānis Baiks and City Council officials, speak at Vidzeme University College, tour the Valmiermuiža brewery, and visit the Valmiera Fiberglass factory. In Rāmkalni, she will tour the Rāmkalni dried fruit factory …

Riga, November 13, 2015 – U.S. Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues Nicholas Dean will make an official visit to Latvia November 12-13 to discuss the ongoing process of restitution of Holocaust-era Jewish communal and religious properties. He will meet with government officials, members of Parliament, and the Latvian Jewish community. This is Special Envoy’s third …

Riga, November 12, 2015 – U.S. Science Envoy Dr. Arun Majumdar will visit Latvia on November 12-13 as part of a regional trip to discuss energy and energy efficiency issues. While in Latvia, Dr. Majumdar will meet local energy experts, as well as officials from the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development and from …

Riga, November 6, 2015 – The U.S. Embassy will celebrate the power of entrepreneurship and innovation as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2015. Under the theme of “Entrepreneurship: Cultivating the Habits of Success,” the Embassy is organizing a range of events scheduled November 2-20. GEW is the world’s largest celebration of entrepreneurs and small …

Riga, October 23, 2015 – On October 22-23, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Commander General Joseph Votel will visit Latvia to discuss regional security issues and bilateral military cooperation. While in Latvia, General Votel will meet with President Raimonds Vējonis and National Armed Forces commander LTG Raimonds Graube, as well as tour Ādaži Military Base …

Riga, October 15, 2015 – The U.S. Embassy is proud to announce an award of 286,883 EUR to renovate the Vidzeme Regional Brigade training facility of the State Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Valmiera Division. The renovation is projected to be completed in the fall of 2016 and will create a new training hall and …

Riga, October 14, 2015 – U.S. Deputy Assistant Trade Representative (DAUSTR) for Small Business Christina Sevilla will visit Riga October 14-17. While in Latvia, DAUSTR Sevilla will meet with representatives from local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and with senior government officials, including from the Saeima and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On October 16, …

Riga, October 14, 2015 – On behalf of American Councils for International Education, U.S. Embassy Riga invites eligible secondary school students to spend an academic year in the United States through the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program. The application deadline is Friday, October 16, 2015. Created in 1992 by the United States Congress, FLEX is …

Riga, October 13, 2015 – A delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives led by Representative Eric Swalwell will visit Latvia, October 14-15. The delegation will also include Representative C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger. While in Latvia, the delegation will meet with Minister of Foreign Affairs Edgars Rinkēvičs and other Latvian government officials. Additionally, the delegation will …

Riga, October 9, 2015 – A delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives led by Representative Duncan Hunter will visit Latvia, October 10-12. The delegation will also include Representative Mark Sanford. While in Latvia, the delegation will meet with senior officials from the Ministries of Interior, Transportation, Defense and Foreign Affairs to discuss regional security …

Riga, September 1, 2015 – Lieutenant General Frederick “Ben” Hodges, the Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe, will lead a delegation from U.S. Army Europe in the 21st Theater Sustainment Command Terrain Walk across Germany, Latvia, and Poland September 1-3. The delegation will visit Latvia September 2-3 and will tour Riga International Airport and Riga …

Riga, August 25, 2015 – The new U.S. Ambassador to Latvia, Nancy Bikoff Pettit, will arrive in Riga on Friday, August 28. She will begin her official duties after presenting her credentials to the President of Latvia, Raimonds Vejonis, on September 8. President Barack Obama nominated Nancy Bikoff Pettit to be Ambassador to Latvia on …

Riga, August 19, 2015 – U.S. Congressman Steve Chabot will visit Latvia, August 19-20. While in Latvia, Representative Chabot will meet with senior government officials from the Ministries of Economy, Foreign Affairs, and Defense to discuss regional security and economic issues. Additionally, Representative Chabot will tour Adazi military base and meet with U.S. and Latvian …

Riga, August 19, 2015 – Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs Doug Frantz will visit Latvia August 19-21 to participate in the inauguration ceremony for the NATO Strategic Communications Center of Excellence. A/S Frantz will also meet with government officials and participate in the conference The Riga Stratcom Dialogue: Perception Matters at the National …

Riga, August 17, 2015 – A delegation of U.S. Senators will visit Latvia on August 20 to participate in the inauguration ceremony for the NATO Strategic Communications Center of Excellence. The delegation is led by Senators John McCain and Sheldon Whitehouse and also includes Senator John Barrasso. While in Latvia, the delegation will meet with …

Riga, August 7, 2015 – A delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives led by Representative Dana Rohrabacher, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia and Emerging Threats, will visit Latvia August 7-8. The delegation will include Representative Stephen Cohen, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil …

Riga, August 5, 2015 – A delegation of U.S. Congressmen from the House of Representatives led by Representative Rob Wittman will visit Latvia August 5-6. The delegation will also include Representative Madeleine Bordallo, Representative Bill Flores, Representative Robert Pittenger, and Representative Kenny Marchant. While in Latvia, the delegation will meet with parliamentarians and with officials …

Riga, July 24, 2015 – Secretary of State John F. Kerry will release the 2015 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report at 10:00 a.m. on July 27, 2015, at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. Secretary Kerry will also honor this year’s TIP Report Heroes, which include Latvia’s Gita Miruškina, a lawyer at Safe …

Riga, July 21, 2015 – The United States European Command (USEUCOM), in partnership with the U.S. Embassy Riga and the Daugavpils Regional Council, completed renovation at the Naujene Orphanage. To mark the completion of this humanitarian civic assistance (HCA) project, which is valued at $195,000, the U.S. Embassy and local authorities will hold a closing …

Riga, July 20, 2015 – On Tuesday, July 21, U.S. Embassy Riga Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean, Deputy Director of Healthcare Department of Latvian Ministry of Health Biruta Kleina, and Director of State Emergency Medical Service (SEMS) Armands Ploriņš will participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of an emergency vehicle garage at the District …

Riga, July 10, 2015 – On Tuesday, July 21, U.S. Embassy Riga Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean, Deputy Director of Healthcare Department of Latvian Ministry of Health Biruta Kleina, and Director of State Emergency Medical Service (SEMS) Armands Ploriņš will participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of an emergency vehicle garage at the District …

Riga, June 30, 2015 – On Thursday, July 2, at 17:30, the U.S. Embassy in Latvia will celebrate its 239th anniversary of independence at its annual Independence Day reception for invited guests at the Latvian Society House. Hosted by Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean, the event will take place at the Latvian Society House’s Big Hall …

Riga, June 26, 2015 – A delegation of U.S. Congressmen from the House of Representatives led by Representative Mario Diaz-Balart will visit Latvia from June 27-29 to attend the Transatlantic Legislators Dialogue hosted by the Saeima under the auspices of Latvia’s Presidency of the EU Council. The delegation will include Representative Jim Costa, Representative Eliot …

Riga, June 17, 2015 – The U.S. Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus, will visit Latvia, June 17-18. While in Latvia, the Secretary of the Navy will meet with Defense Minister Raimonds Vējonis, the Chief of Defense, Lieutenant General Raimonds Graube, and the Commander of the Latvian Naval Forces, Captain Juris Roze, to discuss NATO …

Riga, June 16, 2015 – The U.S. Embassy in Riga is proud to be a major supporter of EuroPride in Riga, a week-long series of events to recognize and promote the human rights and basic freedoms of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) people through workshops, conferences, art exhibitions and cultural events. Promoting inclusion and …

Riga, June 15, 2015 – U.S. Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues Nicholas Dean will make an official visit to Latvia June 15 – 16 to discuss the ongoing process of restitution of Holocaust-era Jewish communal and religious properties. He will meet with government officials, members of Parliament, and the Latvian Jewish community. For more information …

Riga, June 12, 2015 – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen will visit Latvia, June 13-14. While in Latvia, Senator Shaheen will meet with senior government officials to discuss NATO issues, regional security, and the Latvian Presidency of the Council of the EU. Additionally, Senator Shaheen will tour Adazi military base and meet with U.S. soldiers currently …

Riga, June 10, 2015 – Today, Sharon Hudson-Dean, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. at the U.S. Embassy in Riga will host a reception to honor the recipients of this year’s Fulbright, Humphrey, Benjamin Franklin, and Baltic American Freedom Foundation Fellowships. This year, three students and three scholars from Latvia will receive Fulbright Fellowships to study and conduct …

Riga, June 5, 2015 –The United States European Command (USEUCOM), in partnership with the U.S. Embassy Riga and the Daugavpils Regional Council, will undertake a humanitarian civic assistance (HCA) project at Naujene Orphanage. To mark the launch of the project, the U.S. Embassy and local authorities will hold a kick-off ceremony on June 8 at …

Riga, June 5, 2015 –On Monday, June 8, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkēvičs together with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Sharon Hudson-Dean and Riga Graduate School of Law (RGSL) Rector George Ulrich, will announce a new partnership to support RGSL’s Advanced Program in Law Economics for European Neighborhood Policy Countries and Central Asia. This three-month training …

Riga, June 4, 2015 –American celebrity chef, Art Smith, will visit Riga, June 9-12. Oprah Winfrey’s former personal chef, Chef Smith will arrive from Expo Milano 2015, where he is representing the United States at the U.S. Pavilion. In Riga, Chef Smith will participate in various events, including leading a master class for Latvian chefs, …

Riga, June 1, 2015 — U.S. Attorney General of the Department of Justice Loretta E. Lynch and Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas will visit Latvia, June 2-3 to participate in the EU-U.S. Justice and Home Affairs Ministerial Meeting hosted by the Latvian Minister of Interior and Minister of Justice. In …

Riga, April 13, 2015 – U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Rose Gottemoeller will visit Latvia April 14-15. While in Latvia, Under Secretary Gottemoeller will meet with members of Parliament and officials at the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Interior to discuss international and regional security, arms control, nonproliferation, …

Riga, May 28, 2015 –The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the launch of this year’s competition for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for academic year 2016-2017. The Embassy encourages all qualified students and scholars to apply The Fulbright Program was established in 1946 under legislation introduced by the …

Riga, May 21, 2015 –On Friday, May 22, a group of three NATO ships is scheduled to arrive in Riga, Latvia for a scheduled port visit. The three ships include the guided missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69), the Turkish frigate TCG Goksu and the Dutch frigate HNLMS Tromp. These ships are part of an …

Riga, May 20, 2015 – The world’s oldest collegiate a cappella group, the Whiffenpoofs from Yale University, will visit Latvia May 23-25. The singing group will provide free performances in Talsi on May 24 and Riga on May 25, with the support of the U.S. Embassy Riga. The Whiffenpoofs will visit Talsi on Sunday, May …

Riga, May 15, 2015 – On May 18-19, over 60 journalists from the Baltic states, and Central and Eastern Europe will attend training focused on building digital literacy and capacity among investigative journalists, TechCamp Riga: Clearing the Noise. Investigative Journalism in a Digital Age. The event is hosted by the U.S. Embassy Riga in cooperation …

Riga, April 24, 2015 – The U.S. State Department’s Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs John A. Heffern will visit Latvia on April 27 for meetings with Latvian government officials at the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Economics as well as with experts from the energy, banking, and entrepreneurship …

Riga, April 13, 2015 – U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Rose Gottemoeller will visit Latvia April 14-15. While in Latvia, Under Secretary Gottemoeller will meet with members of Parliament and officials at the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Interior to discuss international and regional security, arms control, nonproliferation, …

Riga, April 9, 2015 – U.S. Senator Robert Portman will visit Latvia on April 9-11. While in Latvia, Senator Portman will meet with senior government officials at the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense and Internal Affairs to discuss NATO issues. Senator Portman will also meet with local MPs and tour the Adazi military base to …

Riga, April 8, 2015 – On Wednesday, April 8, U.S. Embassy Riga Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean will participate in the commemoration ceremony in Liepāja to honor the U.S. airmen presumed lost when their aircraft was shot down by Soviet fighter planes on April 8, 1950. During her visit, Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean will participate in …

Riga, March 27, 2015 – U.S. Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues Nicholas Dean will make an official visit to Latvia March 31 – April 2 to discuss the ongoing process of restitution of Holocaust-era Jewish communal and religious properties. He will meet with officials from the Prime Minister’s office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, …

Riga, March 11, 2015 – As announced by the Pentagon Monday, approximately 3,000 soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division are coming to Europe for training and exercises. As part of that group, a company sized contingent from the 3rd Infantry Division (ID), or approximately 150 soldiers, will be deployed to Latvia in support of Operation …

Riga, March 10, 2015 – The United States European Command (USEUCOM), in partnership with the U.S. Embassy Riga and the Daugavpils Regional Council, will undertake a humanitarian civic assistance (HCA) project at Naujene Orphanage during the summer of 2015. The project will be carried out by three rotations of military engineers from the U.S. Air …

Riga, February 25, 2015 – U.S. State Department Chief Economist Rodney Ludema will visit Latvia February 25-27 to discuss the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and other economic issues of mutual interest. During his visit, Dr. Ludema will meet with senior government officials at the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Finance, and Transport. He will …

Riga, February 24, 2015 – U.S. State Department Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Richard Hoagland will visit Latvia February 24-26 and will meet with officials from the Latvian Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Transport and local civil society representatives to discuss developments and projects in the South and Central Asia region. Richard Hoagland has been Principal …

Riga, February 4, 2015 – U.S. State Department Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR) Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for Energy Diplomacy Robin Dunnigan will visit Latvia February 5-6 to speak at the European Energy Union Conference. During her visit, DAS Dunnigan will also meet with senior government officials at the Ministries of Economics and Foreign Affairs …

Riga, January 17, 2015 – The Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe, Lieutenant General Frederick “Ben” Hodges will visit Latvia January 18-20. In Latvia, LTG Hodges will visit Ādaži Military Base and participate in the welcome ceremony of U.S. soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment. The troops, which arrived earlier this month, are deployed …

Riga, January 16, 2015 – U.S. State Department Coordinator for Sanctions Policy Ambassador Daniel Fried is visiting Latvia January 15-16 to meet with senior government officials. The visit is part of a regional trip which includes stops in Brussels, Paris, and Riga, in Latvia’s capacity as current host to the Presidency of the Council of …

Riga, November 19, 2014 – U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland will visit Riga November 19-20. While in Latvia, Assistant Secretary Nuland will meet with Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma, Minister of Foreign Affairs Edgars Rinkēvičs, and Minister of Defense Raimonds Vējonis to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional security, and Latvia’s …

Riga, November 6, 2014 – The U.S. Embassy will celebrate the power of entrepreneurship and innovation as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2014. Under the theme of “Supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from the Start,” the Embassy is organizing a range of events scheduled November 3-23. GEW is the world’s largest celebration of …

Riga, October 28, 2014 – U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs (ISA) Derek Chollet arrives in Riga today for an official visit through October 30. While in Latvia, Assistant Secretary Chollet will meet with Latvian Minister of Defense Raimonds Vējonis, Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs Edgars Rinkēvičs, and other senior Latvian government …

Riga, October 14, 2014 – On October 15, two experts on trafficking-in-persons cases from the United States, Honorable Virginia M. Kendall, United States Federal Judge, and Daniel Weiss, United States Federal Prosecutor, will lead a seminar and share their legal and practical experience with Latvian police investigators, prosecutors, judges, and NGO leaders, on ways to …

Riga, October 8, 2014 – Vidzeme concert hall “Cēsis”, U.S. Embassy Riga, and Dimitry Krupnikov are proud to announce the opening of a photo exhibit entitled The Kennedys: Photographs by Mark Shaw on Thursday, October 9, at 5:00 p.m. in Vidzeme concert hall “Cēsis”, Raunas Street 12-1. The exhibit features over 40 historic photographs of …

Riga, August 28, 2014 – Riga Art Space, the U.S. Embassy Riga, and Dimitry Krupnikov are proud to announce the opening of a photo exhibit entitled The Kennedys: Photographs by Mark Shaw on Tuesday, September 2, at 4:00 p.m. in Riga Art Space’s Intro Hall, Kungu Street 3. The exhibit features over 40 historic photographs …

Riga, August 27, 2014 – On August 28, 2014, U.S. Embassy Riga and Latvian Officials will participate in closing ceremonies to mark the completion of two Humanitarian Civic Assistance (HCA) projects at Adazi High School and Ogre 1st High School. The project at Adazi High School included installation of perimeter fence around the school grounds …

Riga, August 22, 2014 — This Saturday, August 23, a U.S. Embassy Riga team will participate in the Baltic Way commemorative bike ride organized by the Latvian National Armed Forces to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Baltic Way. The team will consist of U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean, U.S. Embassy personnel, and U.S. military representatives.

Riga, August 19, 2014 – On August 20, 2014, U.S. Embassy Riga Chargé d’Affaires Sharon Hudson-Dean; U.S. Brigadier General Kevin McNeely, Deputy Director Strategy, Policy, and Programming, U.S. European Command; Chairman of the Saeima Solvita Aboltina; Mayor of Kurzeme Regional Council Inga Berziņa; and Director of the Latvian State Emergency Medical Service Mr. Armands Ploriņs …

Riga, August 14, 2014 – On Monday, August 18 U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) Commander General Paul J. Selva will arrive in Latvia for meetings with officials from the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Transport. During his visit, General Selva will also tour Riga International Airport and Riga Universal Terminal, and …

Riga, August 6, 2014 – U.S. Congressman Devin Nunes visited Latvia this week as part of a larger regional visit, which also includes stops in Ukraine, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. In Riga, Nunes met with Latvian government officials and visited Adazi Military base to meet U.S. and Latvian troops. U.S. Congressman Devin …

Riga, July 30, 2014 – Sharon Hudson-Dean has now taken up her assignment as the Deputy Chief of Mission of U.S. Embassy Riga. Upon her arrival, Ms. Hudson-Dean commented, “After dedicating one year to studying Latvian and following Latvian current events, it is a great honor to start work as the new Deputy Chief of …

Riga, July 22, 2014 – U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Ira N. Forman arrives in Latvia today for a two day visit that is part of a larger regional trip. During his visit, Forman will meet with government officials, representatives of the local Jewish community and the diplomatic corps, and tour the …

Riga, July 15, 2014 – Today, U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Mark Pekala will host a reception to honor the recipients of this year’s Fulbright, Benjamin Franklin, and Baltic American Freedom Foundation Fellowships. This year, three students and three scholars from Latvia will receive Fulbright Fellowships to study and conduct research in the United States, two …

Riga, July 10, 2014 – The Latvian National Baseball Team will play a team from the U.S. 1st Squadron 91st Cavalry Regiment on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. on the field of University of Latvia at Lomonosova Street 1A. Beginning at 11:00 a.m., youth from several orphanages in the Riga area will join the two teams …

Riga, July 3, 2014 – U.S. Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues Douglas Davidson will visit Latvia July 3-5 to attend a commemoration ceremony for Latvia’s Holocaust Remembrance Day. During his visit, he will meet with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Council of the Jewish Communities, and the diplomatic corps. More information about …

Riga, June 30, 2014 – On Thursday, July 3, the U.S. Embassy in Latvia will host its annual Independence Day celebration for the American community and a wide range of invited guests. The event will take place from 17:30 to 19:30 on the Embassy grounds (Samnera Velsa Street 1). Ambassador Pekala will address the gathering. …

Riga, June 27, 2014 – U.S. Ambassador to Latvia Mark Pekala and Latvian Minister of Finance Andris Vilks signed an intergovernmental agreement to implement the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) to promote transparency between the two nations on tax matters. These agreements underscore growing international cooperation to end tax evasion everywhere. The United States …

Riga, June 27, 2014 – On Saturday, June 28, the guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) is scheduled to arrive in Riga, Latvia for a scheduled port visit as part of an ongoing effort by U.S. military forces to strengthen ties with NATO allies and regional partners, while working towards mutual goals of promoting …

Riga, June 20, 2014 – Today, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry released the 2014 Trafficking in Persons Report. This year, Latvia was placed in Tier 2, which is the same ranking as last year. The 2014 Trafficking in Persons Report asserts that the Government of Latvia is making significant efforts to comply with the …

Riga, May 29, 2014 – On May 30, 2014, 70 American soldiers and engineers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade stationed in Adaži, together with members of the U.S. Embassy community, will volunteer at Zvannieki foster home to chop and bring in firewood, dig several water trenches, and lay a concrete foundation for a new poultry …

Riga, May 21, 2014 – The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the launch of this year’s competition for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program and the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for academic year 2015-2016. The Embassy encourages all qualified students and scholars to apply. The Fulbright Program was established in 1946 under legislation introduced by …

Riga, May 21, 2014 – The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the launch of this year’s competition for the Humphrey Fellowship Program for the academic year 2015–2016. The Embassy encourages all qualified candidates to apply. The Humphrey Program provides mid-career Latvians with an opportunity to enhance their professional capabilities through participation in a specialized …

Riga, May 19, 2014 – The U.S. Secretary of the Army John H. McHugh will visit Latvia from May 19 to 20. This visit is part of a larger regional visit, which also includes stops in Estonia and Lithuania. While in Latvia, Secretary McHugh will meet with Latvian Minister of Defense Raimonds Vējonis and Brigadier …

Riga, May 16, 2014 – To mark International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO), the U.S. Embassy in Riga will fly the rainbow flag at the Embassy building May 17 and 18. IDAHO is an annual event observed internationally to counter homophobia and raise awareness of the human rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender …

Riga, May 13, 2014 – Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Richard Stengel arrives in Riga today for an official visit. During his visit, Under Secretary Stengel will meet with Latvian government officials, media professionals and U.S. Government program alumni, participate in a town hall meeting at Riga Stradiņš University, and …

Riga, May 9, 2014 – The Embassy is proud to announce the opening of the “Frames of America” photo exhibition by American photographer Mary Ellen Mark at the new Latvian National Library, Mūkusalas Street 3, Riga on May 10 at 4:00 p.m. The exhibition of works presents a classic documentary photography tradition in which photojournalism …

Riga, April 28, 2014 – Under Secretary of State for Management Patrick Kennedy is visiting Riga, Latvia from April 28 to 29. During his visit, Under Secretary Kennedy will meet with Latvian government officials, view U.S. Embassy operations, and tour the new Latvian National Library. As Under Secretary for Management, Patrick Kennedy is responsible for …

Riga, April 23, 2014 – On April 24, a company-sized contingent of U.S. paratroopers from U.S. Army Europe’s 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team will arrive in Latvia to begin exercises with Latvian troops. The arrival at Riga International Airport will be open to the media. All media representatives interested in covering the event should arrive …

Riga, April 22, 2014 – On April 24, a company-sized contingent of U.S. paratroopers from U.S. Army Europe’s 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team will arrive in Latvia to begin exercises with Latvian troops. This new exercise is part of a series of expanded U.S. land force training activities in the Baltic region and Poland that …

Riga, April 11, 2014 – A delegation of U.S. Senators led by Senator John McCain will visit Latvia from April 15 to April 16. The delegation will include Senator John McCain, Senator John Barrasso, and Senator John Hoeven. This visit is part of a larger regional visit, which will also include stops in Norway, Estonia, …

Riga, April 8, 2014 – On Wednesday, April 9, U.S. Ambassador to Latvia, Mark Pekala, will participate in a commemoration ceremony in Liepāja, in honor of the U.S. airmen presumed lost when their aircraft was shot down by Soviet fighter planes on April 8, 1950. During his visit, Ambassador Pekala will also visit the Liepāja …

Riga, March 19, 2014 – Today, Major General Gregory Vadnais of the Michigan National Guard arrives in Latvia for a four-day visit. During his stay, MG Vadnais will meet with officials from the Ministry of Defense and the Latvian Special Operations Unit. MG Vadnais will also participate in the ceremony for the Latvian Raising of …

Riga, February 13, 2014 – From Monday, February 17 to 19 renowned American pastry chef Michael Laiskonis will visit Riga. During his three day visit Laiskonis will participate in various events, including leading a pastry master class for Latvian chefs and teaching youth from Latvia’s SOS children’s villages how to prepare delicious and healthy meals. …

Riga, January 23, 2014 – The U.S. Embassy Riga invites 16–18 year old high school students to participate in the video contest and submit their 1–5 minute long videos on the topic “Innovation” until February 28. Authors of the 10 best videos will receive consolation prizes while the winner will be granted an opportunity to …

Riga, January 17, 2014 – Starting February 2, 2014, applicants applying for a U.S. visa at the U.S. Embassy in Riga, Latvia will schedule their interview and receive their U.S. visas, using a new system, which includes a new website, call center, payment options, and courier passport passback. This new process is part of a …