35 years since Latvia's de facto independence recognition
Friday, August 21, marks 35 years since the constitutional law was adopted that de facto restored Latvia's independence from the USSR. Commemorative ceremonies are planned at the Freedom Monument and in the Saeima.
Friday, August 21, marks the 35th anniversary of the de facto recognition of Latvia's independence following Soviet occupation. The date commemorates the moment on August 21, 1991, when the Supreme Council of the Republic of Latvia adopted the constitutional law "On the Statehood of the Republic of Latvia."
With this decision, Latvia de facto restored its state independence and marked its return to the community of democratic Western European nations. At the same time, the adoption of the law meant Soviet laws lost their legal force on Latvian territory. It was by referencing this constitutional law, adopted on August 21, that other countries around the world recognized the restoration of Latvia's independence.
Commemorative events
Several official events will mark the anniversary. At 11:00 on Friday, President Edgars Rinkēvičs, together with other senior state officials, will take part in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Freedom Monument, honoring the 35th anniversary of the constitutional law's adoption.
At 12:00, a ceremonial sitting will be held in the Saeima, featuring addresses by Saeima Speaker Daiga Mieriņa and Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs.
