Rinkevics on State Language Day: Latvian is the foundation of the Latvian state

Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics said on 15 October, State Language Day, that the Latvian language is the foundation of the Latvian state. In a greeting to the public, he noted that the language helps people understand one another and come closer together, particularly those who hold Latvia dear.

"A strong language builds a secure Latvia. And a rich language builds a rich nation," Rinkevics said.

Thanks to language users

The president observed that Latvia has many brilliant writers and poets. He mentioned established masters, creators of the latest literary trends, authors who entertain and those who provoke anger.

Rinkevics thanked everyone who writes, speaks and sings in Latvian every day, and who does so correctly, beautifully and engagingly.

A call to read and protect the language

The head of state encouraged people to use the day to appreciate Latvian authors and read a work by a Latvian writer or poet. "Let us protect the Latvian language – that is how we also protect our beloved Latvia," he said.

Origin of the day

State Language Day is marked in Latvia every year on 15 October. On that date in 1998, the Saeima, Latvia's parliament, adopted amendments to Article 4 of the Satversme, the country's constitution, reinforcing the status of Latvian as the state language.