RIGA, July 11 (LETA) - On Friday, during a working visit to Rezekne, President Edgars Rinkevics praised entrepreneurs’ ability to adapt to changing circumstances, LETA was informed by Martins Dregeris, the president’s advisor on communications.

During his working visit to Rezekne, Rinkevics met with city council leadership, representatives of the Rezekne and Latgale Special Economic Zones (SEZ), and visited the Eastern Latvia Creative Services Center Zeimuls, where he met with representatives of the Rezekne City Youth Council.

The President familiarized himself with the operations of the KUUP coffee roastery and the range of products created by Latgale entrepreneurs and designers at the Kabata store, and also visited the Brivvalsts Dargumu Nams exhibition hall.

Discussions with city council leadership covered current regional issues, civil defense, the municipal budget, the business environment, as well as needs in the areas of workforce, housing affordability, and educational programs, Dregeris reported.

"It is very gratifying to conclude this series of visits to all of Latvia’s municipalities in Latgale, and specifically in Rezekne. Here, I hear a clear interest from local residents, business people, and the municipality alike in building and developing a strong city and a strong country," the president noted.

He acknowledged that he also understands the concerns raised by various threats, including those posed by drones. Unfortunately, it is impossible to eliminate such risks entirely; however, he expressed confidence that the Latvian government and the relevant agencies will do everything possible to mitigate security risks. He emphasized that it is important to complete the construction of the border and equip it with technological solutions, as well as to strengthen the State Border Guard both financially and in terms of human resources.

During a meeting with representatives of the Rezekne and Latgale SEZ and local business leaders, issues related to labor availability were discussed, challenges in attracting investment to the Latgale region-which is also part of the European Union’s eastern border-as well as security and civil protection issues.

"Businesses in Rezekne and Latgale as a whole are particularly affected by the consequences of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, including drone incidents. This is reflected in changes to supply chains, production costs, and, unfortunately for some, a decline in demand. Despite these challenges, I view the business community’s ability to adapt to changing circumstances very positively," the president commented.

Rinkevics believes that meeting with entrepreneurs from the SEZ and the region is essential to hear firsthand opinions based on real-world experience-specifically, which support instruments these entrepreneurs are already using and value-as well as to identify areas where the government could improve its support. "I am pleased with every entrepreneur who chooses to invest, expand production, and create new jobs in Latgale. Their insights help strengthen the business environment by highlighting solutions in the areas of labor, housing affordability, and education," the President said after the meeting.

Rinkevics discussed with representatives of the Rezekne City Youth Council the experiences and benefits of this year, during which Rezekne serves as Latvia’s youth capital, current issues in youth policy, and opportunities for meaningful engagement in democratic processes, including the development of local communities.

During the visit, the President attended the graduation ceremony at the State Border Guard College and addressed those in attendance.