Polish President Karol Nawrocki Concludes Key Talks in Latvia on Security and Economic Cooperation

High-Level Discussions in Riga

Polish President Karol Nawrocki concluded a working visit to Riga, Latvia, on December 11, 2025, engaging in extensive talks with his Latvian counterpart, Edgars Rinkevics. The discussions, held at Riga Castle, centered on bolstering regional security, enhancing defense cooperation, and deepening economic ties between the two nations. The visit underscores the shared commitment of Poland and Latvia to Euro-Atlantic cooperation and stability in the Baltic region.

Focus on Regional Security and Defense

Security and defense issues topped the agenda, with both presidents emphasizing the critical importance of a strong NATO presence and close EU-U.S. cooperation for regional stability. Key topics included:

• Strengthening NATO's eastern flank
• Cooperation in defense, including the presence of Polish soldiers at the Adazi military base
• Addressing hybrid warfare and migratory pressure from Belarus
• Unified responses to Russia's actions and concerns
• Support for Ukraine
• Commitment to allocating 5% of national budgets to defense, a stance highlighted by President Rinkevics

President Nawrocki also extended an invitation to President Rinkevics to participate in an upcoming meeting on Baltic Sea security, which will also address Poland's invitation to the next G20 summit.

Economic and Infrastructure Collaboration

Beyond security, the leaders explored avenues for enhanced economic cooperation. Discussions covered:

• Bilateral trade and investment
• Major infrastructure projects, specifically the Via Baltica highway and the Rail Baltica railway
• Key sectors for joint initiatives, including energy, transport, and technology
• Environmental and energy issues, including the Baltic states' connection to the European electricity grid

President Rinkevics noted that 'These issues require our joint efforts, both for Poland and for the Baltic states.'

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

President Nawrocki highlighted the 'close historical ties and common experience' that form the foundation of mutual understanding and cooperation between Poland and Latvia. He affirmed that relations are 'excellent' and that both nations represent the same values, acting together in many areas. The Polish President also met with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina and members of the Polish community in Latvia during his visit.