The 95th anniversary of the de iure recognition of the Republic of Latvia, otherwise known as “Diplomats Day” was celebrated on 26 January.

Speaking to those gathered at a festive event in the Foreign Ministry on 25 January, Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkēvičs said that on the eve of the 95th anniversary of the de iure recognition of the Republic of Latvia, the Latvian Foreign Service is facing challenges similar to those encountered by the founders of our Foreign Service – Zigfrīds Anna Meierovics and the first Latvian diplomats.  Latvia’s membership of NATO and the EU seems self-evident, but still, Latvian diplomats must make all efforts in the future to strengthen Latvia’s connection with the Euro-Atlantic community, the Minister asserted.

During the event, an original document from the Latvian National Archives ­ a note on the recognition of Latvia de iure signed on 26 January 1921 by Aristide Briand, French Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, President of the meetings of the Supreme Council of Allied Powers from 22 to 26 January 1921 – was displayed in the lobby of the Foreign Ministry building, in the  highest quality anti-reflective Artglass™ by Groglass® showcase.

The “Minutes” of the 26 January 1921 meeting of the Supreme Council of Allied Powers were also displayed: the document is a record of the debate by representatives of the allied powers on the recognition of Latvia and Estonia de iure. This was made possible due to the cooperation of Sarmīte Danne, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Latvia in France, with the archives of the Foreign Ministry of France, from which the document was received. This was the first time ever that the document was displayed in Latvia.

Background information:
Latvia’s recognition de iure meant that the country became a subject of international law – Latvia could proceed with acceding to international conventions, signing multilateral agreements, and participating in international conferences as a full-fledged member, as well as organizing and participating in official consultations.

Groglass® team is honored to see the recognition of Latvia de iure displayed in Artglass™ by Groglass® showcase and to be a part of so important event.

Photos: the Foreign Ministry