RIGA, Jan 1 (LETA) - On New Year’s Eve, Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) called on Latvians to take pride in their own achievements and achievements of other Latvians.

"It gives us the courage to believe in ourselves, and energy to accomplish more than we ever thought possible," the prime minister said, adding that Latvians are talented, strong and courageous.

"I receive high praise for Latvia from foreign colleagues - we have access to advanced digital solutions, we have world-class achievements in science, medicine, culture and cinema. Our achievements in sports are also outstanding. It is in our, Latvians’, spirit to strive for excellence," she said.

"Let us strengthen the defense and security of Latvia. Russia’s war in Ukraine continues to impact the economy not only in Latvia, but across Europe. The more we invest in our development, health, and education, the wealthier we will become and the safer we will feel. This will boost Latvia's competitiveness, attract investments, and increase exports, ultimately improving the well-being of the entire population," the prime minister said.

She said that the primary task of the government is to serve the interests of its people. In the coming year, the government will further improve the performance of public institutions, making them more accessible and responsive to citizens’ needs.

"We are all important to Latvia. We strengthen our country through civic activity, through leading by example, and by preserving our traditions while also creating new ones. Next spring, we will take part in the Great Clean-up and tidy up our country. In the summer, we will actively participate in municipal elections and find inspiration in the Latvian School Youth Song and Dance Festival. We will support our athletes in the European Basketball Championship in Riga. In the autumn, the children will start school, and as winter draws near, we will celebrate Latvia's 107th birthday grandly," Silina said.

Wishing happy New Year to the Latvian people, Silina cited the Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament, Ruslan Stefanchuk as he once said about Latvia: "You may not be a large country, but you are a mighty nation.

" That says it all. And even more. Let us therefore use this strength to protect and build a prosperous Latvia, a part of the European Union and NATO," Silina concluded.