RIGA, Aug 12 (LETA) - Discussions on the distribution of the defence and security budget are expected when the 2026 budget will be discussed, Minister of Defense Andris Spruds (Progressives) told TV3 this morning.

He said that the budget is always an important topic of discussion.

"It is the central tool we use to achieve priorities in government. There is a consensus that security is a priority, there is a consensus in government that demography and education are both important as well," the politician said.

He also stressed that Latvia is moving towards 5 percent of gross domestic product for defense and security.

"Of course, there will be discussions here on how to specifically allocate this budget, which goes to broader security, resilience, which also goes to other sectors," Spruds assured.

At the same time, he stressed that "getting closer to 5 percent is very important" for the implementation of regional defense plans.

As reported, ministries had until July to submit proposals to cut spending by EUR 150 million.

On June 30, Finance Minister Arvils Aseradens (New Unity) informed Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) that the ministries had fulfilled the government's task by submitting a total of 250 proposals to cut spending in order to boost the efficiency of the public sector, strengthen the country's fiscal sustainability and reduce administrative costs at the same time.

In line with the 2026 budget timetable, an informative report on expenditure cuts and reviews will be submitted to the Cabinet by August 19.