Political Consultations between Latvia and India Strengthen Bilateral Ties

On 5 November 2025, Latvia and India held the 9th Foreign Office Consultations in Riga, marking a significant milestone in bilateral diplomatic engagement. The discussions brought together Andžejs Viļumsons, State Secretary of Latvia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Sibi George, Secretary (West) at India's Ministry of External Affairs, to comprehensively address bilateral cooperation, regional security challenges, and multilateral collaboration. The consultations underscored both nations' commitment to deepening dialogue on matters of mutual interest and positioned their partnership within the broader EU-India framework.​

High-Level Diplomatic Engagement

Prior to the formal consultations, Secretary Sibi George met with Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže in an introductory meeting. During this engagement, Minister Braže emphasized that India represents an important partner to Latvia and the European Union in advancing economic cooperation and strengthening ties across multiple sectors. These preliminary discussions established the diplomatic context for the substantive talks that followed.​

Bilateral Relations and Economic Cooperation

The consultations highlighted positive bilateral dynamics, with both sides expressing readiness for active political dialogue and engagement. Discussions encompassed economic cooperation opportunities, with the Indian delegation receiving a comprehensive introduction to Latvian companies operating in India and the significant potential of Latvia's rapidly growing new technologies sector, including their commercial and innovative applications. Both sides agreed to expand relations in areas of trade, technology, innovation, and people-to-people ties. This exchange of information demonstrated both countries' interest in identifying concrete areas for enhanced partnership.​

Multilateral Cooperation Framework

A key aspect of the consultations centered on strengthening cooperation within the United Nations framework during Latvia's term as a UN Security Council member in 2026 and 2027. Both nations identified shared interests in international peace, security, and sustainable development as priority areas for meaningful collaboration. India reaffirmed its support for Latvia's UN Security Council term for 2026-2027. Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest.​

Regional Perspectives and Geopolitical Developments

Andžejs Viļumsons outlined Latvia's perspectives on peace and stability in Eastern Europe, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions to regional challenges. Sibi George emphasized India's commitment to deepening cooperation with the European Union and shared India's perspective on current geopolitical developments in the Asia-Pacific region, including the impact of border disputes on regional stability and economic prosperity.​

Institutional Framework and Diplomatic Infrastructure

The meeting represents a continuation of established institutional dialogue. Previous consultations were held in November 2022 in New Delhi. The institutional framework for bilateral relations has been substantially strengthened following the opening of an Indian Embassy in Riga in July 2024, with Ambassador Namrata S. Kumar taking office as the first resident Ambassador in March 2025. The Latvian Embassy in New Delhi has maintained diplomatic presence since 2014, providing continuity in bilateral relations.​

Future Engagement

Both sides agreed to maintain regular official exchanges and hold the next Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi in 2026 at a mutually convenient time. India conveyed appreciation for Latvia's condemnation of all forms of terrorism.