Riga, Sept 19 (LETA) - People living in the border area are exposed to the threat of hybrid warfare, a conference "Where are you going, border region? A vision for the development of the eastern border region in 2040", Saeima Speaker Daiga Mieriņa (Greens/Farmers) assessed.

Mierina stressed the strategic importance of the eastern border region and the challenges it faces. She pointed out that the border between the European Union and NATO countries and the aggressor countries is more than 2,800 kilometers long and Latvia's part of it is 457 kilometers. This area includes nine districts and two major cities, whose inhabitants live in close proximity to the aggressor and are exposed to the threat of hybrid warfare, including disinformation, on a daily basis.

Mierina stressed that the state has the duty to ensure the security and economic development of Latgale and the border region, despite the difficult circumstances. She also pointed out that economic ties with the aggressor countries had been severed and could not be restored until these countries resumed a civilized policy.

In her view, Latvia's border policy should be clear and targeted to prevent population outflow and the emptying of territories. An environment must be created that is conducive to entrepreneurship and border life, even in difficult circumstances.

Mierina also drew attention to the fact that the conference is taking place at a time when the airspace along the border is partially closed for security reasons and NATO has launched the Eastern Sentry mission in response to Russian drone strikes on Polish territory. She believes that this mission is a clear signal to both the public and the aggressor of NATO's readiness to act if the integrity of the border is threatened.

She also stressed that this mission is a demonstration that the people of the border area, their property and their businesses are being protected. Mierina pointed out that every inch of the country is important and every citizen should be equally safe, regardless of where they live.

She mentioned that the development of the eastern border area is on the political agenda, as evidenced by the work on the Anti-Mobility Infrastructure Bill. Moreover, the potential of Latgale is confirmed by the OECD report which highlights the region as an attractive investment and tourism destination, despite geopolitical risks.

In conclusion, Mierina expressed the hope that the conference will promote constructive discussions, dispel myths and strengthen understanding of the importance of Latvia's Eastern border region.

As reported, the Saeima is today discussing an action plan for the growth and security of Latvia's eastern border regions.