We are very pleased to be part of AmCham and are looking forward to driving innovation forward in Latvia.
Mikko Fernström, General Manager, Biogen Latvia
Representatives from seven political parties joined the debate, including Vjaceslavs Dombrovskis (Harmony), Gatis Eglitis (New Conservative Party), Rihards Kols (National Alliance), Dana Reizniece-Ozola (Unity of Green and Farmers), Krisjanis Karins (New Unity), Vita Terauda (Attīstībai/Par!), and Atis Zakatistovs (KPV LV). Invited to the debate were parties running for the next Saeima, which were leading the polls in August, 2018.
Even though, according to the debate's moderator, Professor of International Relations in the Department of Political Science, University of Latvia, Zaneta Ozolina, the debate does not differ much in terms of its format and contents from previous pre-election debates, this was probably the only chance for foreign investors to ask their questions directly to the political parties competing for seats at the Latvian Parliament. The debate took place in English and was attended by more than 120 business and foreign diplomatic service representatives.
Among the most topical questions asked by the chamber members were questions on scaling up fight against corruption, addressing the critical issues in the court system and insolvency process, as well as ensuring reforms and raising the quality of the Latvian educational system. Among other questions asked by the audience were the party positions on whistleblower protection and lobby regulation, which received unanimous support from all representatives. Foreign investors were also interested in the party outlook on increasing government efficiency and reducing public administration, as well as party plans to promote export capacity.
The pre-election debate was organized by the American, British, Norwegian, Swedish, Irish, Danish, German, Finnish and Swiss Chambers of Commerce. The event was held with the support of King's College, the British School of Latvia.
AmCham is a place to meet representatives of other industries and understand the business environment.
Signe Velina, Market Access Manager Latvia of Johnson & Johnson