NATO is Latvia's guarantee of security - Zatlers

''NATO exists as the nucleus of the European and trans-Atlantic security system. There is no reason to doubt or change the main component of our national policy. NATO is Latvia's guarantee of security,'' the Latvian president said in regard to the alliance's new strategic concept, explaining that the organization's fundamental principles should not be changed, because the system is functioning.

Zatlers also pointed out to the new concept's interpretation of NATO-Russian relations. The president pointed out that there have been several different periods of relations over the past ten years - positive ones, like supporting the Afghan operation's logistics effort, as well as very critical moments, like the 2008 war with Georgia. Zatlers emphasized that the alliance is united in declaring that cooperation with Russia in security matters is necessary, whilst at the same time defending NATO's basic interests and core values, LETA was informed by the president's press service.

In his address, the Latvian president pointed out that NATO's main task at the moment is to evaluate possible trans-Atlantic security threats for the next ten years.

The president also emphasized the influence terrorism and organized crime have on security in the trans-Atlantic sphere, especially in such countries that are politically unstable. He pointed out that NATO and the European Union's goal is to ensure good governance, economic stability and military security, and are to be supported also by the Latvian government.

Speaking about economic security, the president pointed out the risks that the lack of energy resources can create, especially in the West. That is why, according to Zatlers, it is important for the EU and NATO to support policies that ensure the diversification of energy sources.

LETA