Latvia, Ukraine sign strategic defense industry partnership agreement

Latvia has signed a memorandum of understanding with leading Ukrainian business and defense organizations, the Latvian Defense Ministry press service reported.

"The document is aimed at establishing close long-term cooperation between the two countries, promoting joint development of the defense industry. The memorandum provides for targeted state support for Ukrainian companies that plan to start or expand their operations in Latvia," the statement said.

The defense ministry said the partnership is aimed at creating a joint defense industry ecosystem that will facilitate technological exchange and economic growth in both countries.

For his part, Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds said that "the combat experience of the Ukrainian defense industry and the technological potential of Latvia is a powerful combination."

"The signed memorandum is not just a formal agreement, it is a practical tool for joint development of innovative solutions that will strengthen the security of both countries and the capabilities of the armed forces. Latvia is becoming a stable base for Ukrainian companies in Europe, while building up its own industrial potential," Sprūds said, according to the ministry’s press service.