The Latvian Association of Professional Guides has expressed frustration over the continued presence of the Latvian Riflemen Monument in the Old Town of Riga, as reported by the Latvian Television program “4. studija” on January 12. The monument, which commemorates the Latvian Riflemen, has become a focal point in the ongoing debate about the removal of Soviet-era symbols.   The controversy…

A Russian citizen has been detained by Latvian border guards after illegally crossing the state border in Liepna parish on Friday, January 10, according to a press release from the State Border Guard.   The incident was prompted by surveillance camera images showing an individual moving from the border toward Latvia. Border guards swiftly responded to the alert and discovered the individual, who…

The Corruption Prevention Bureau (KNAB) has initiated an investigation into airBaltic CEO Martin Gauss to assess his compliance with the Law On Prevention of Conflict of Interest in Activities of Public Officials. The probe follows allegations from private individuals concerning a potential conflict of interest, according to KNAB representatives.   The controversy centers on claims made by Girts…

Riga Airport served 7.12 million passengers in 2024, marking a 7% increase compared to 2023, according to an announcement made on January 8. Transit passengers accounted for 22% of the total, with the airport handling a total of 63,200 flights throughout the year.   December Performance Surges In December alone, nearly 582,000 passengers traveled through Riga Airport, a 20% increase from the same…

The Ministry of Economics in Latvia has implemented a new employee tracking system aimed at enhancing productivity and optimizing resource allocation within the public sector. The announcement was made in a press release on January 8, as the ministry acknowledged the need for a more aggressive approach to address low productivity levels.   Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis (Greens and…

In the midst of heightened attention on Latvia’s airline industry, national carrier airBaltic’s ongoing quest for a strategic investor, potentially Lufthansa, has stirred intrigue. The German airline’s historical connection with Rīga adds a layer of significance to these developments. Lufthansa’s Return to Rīga in 1991: A Symbolic Milestone October 1991 marked a pivotal moment when Lufthansa…

The Port of Riga is gearing up for a transformative year in 2025, with key projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing its infrastructure and operational capabilities. Chairman of the Board of the Freeport of Riga, Sandis Steins, revealed plans for a new passenger terminal, improved maritime access, and industrial expansion. An agreement for financing and constructing a state-of-the-art…