LATVIA has officially opened an honorary consulate in the North-East.
Andris Teikmanis, Latvia Ambassador to the United Kingdom, performed a ceremony to officially open the Baltic nation’s consulate in Newcastle.
The Ambassador was joined for the ceremony at the New Bridge Street building by Lord Mayor of Newcastle Cllr Ian Graham and Latvia’s Honorary Consul in Newcastle, businessman Stephen Gillie.
Mr Gillie is the first Honorary Consul to be appointed in Newcastle since Latvia regained independence in 1991.
The Honorary Consul represents the interests for Latvians in the district and aims to strengthen the partnership between Latvia and North East of England in culture, tourism and economic links.
During his visit, the Ambassador discussed possibilities for closer cooperation between Latvia and Newcastle and visited the Port of Tyne to discuss future economic links following a visit by a Latvian trade mission earlier this year.
Ambassador Teikmanis also visited the The Biscuit Factory are gallery to explore ways of introducing artists from Latvia to the UK.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here