FOURTH MEETING OF MEXICO AND LATVIA FOR POLITICAL CONSULTATIONS

The fourth meeting for political consultations between Mexico and Latvia was held today in the Foreign Ministry. The meeting was co-chaired by the State Secretary of Latvia, Andris Teikmanis, and the Foreign Ministry’s Director General for Europe, Ambassador Alejandro Negrin.

Both delegations committed to giving renewed impetus to the political dialogue in order to strengthen the ties of friendship and cooperation. They also agreed on the need to find specific areas in which to cooperate more closely.

Regarding the bilateral economic relationship, the delegations recognized that while trade has increased significantly, the Free Trade Agreement with the European Union offers still more potential in this area.

Also present at the meeting was a representative from CEMEX, which has investments in Latvia. The Latvian delegation applauded CEMEX’ role in the Baltic region, saying that its success there could help attract other Mexican investors interested in exploring an economic relationship there.

Similarly, both sides welcomed the recent entry into force of the Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income.

In addition, they discussed Latvia’s invitation for Mexico to participate in the large-scale cultural event that will be held in Riga, which has been designated the 2014 European Capital of Culture.

Lastly, the delegations discussed each country’s candidates to various international organizations, including the nomination of Dr. Herminio Blanco to the World Trade Organization (WTO), and they applauded their exchange of support for the UN Human Rights Council.