A global reflection on America’s founding ideals from leading voices living outside the United States in just 250 words.
Baiba Braže currently serves as minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia. From 2020 to 2023, Braže held the post of NATO assistant secretary general for public diplomacy. From 2016 to 2020, Braže was posted as ambassador of Latvia to the United Kingdom, and, from 2003 to 2008, as ambassador of Latvia to the Netherlands, while also representing Latvia in the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
Latvia was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940 and annexed in August 1940. Following Nazi Germany’s invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941, the Nazis occupied Latvia until 1944, when the Soviet army reoccupied Latvia. An independent Latvian state was reestablished in 1991. Latvia joined NATO in 2004.
On behalf of the Republic of Latvia, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to the American people on your nation’s 250th birthday. The United States – long known as the land of the free and the home of the brave – has served as a beacon of freedom, hope, and democratic values for generations of Latvians. We are especially proud of the heritage of the vibrant Latvian-American community that contributes to the prosperity of both our nations.
The alliance between our countries has endured good times and bad. It is a bond rooted in shared values and in the will to defend them. At every key juncture in our history, the United States has stood firmly with us.
You helped us keep the flame of freedom burning during the darkest hours of the occupation.
Together, we brought the Soviet empire crashing down. With resolute American support, we joined NATO, and our soldiers have had each other’s back ever since. We work side by side to combat terrorism and safeguard the security of both our nations and the wider NATO alliance.
The United States is a nation of pioneers that has made the impossible possible. From landing on the moon, to the development of every technological breakthrough imaginable, the United States has led the way forward.
Latvia similarly prides itself on a culture of innovation.
As we celebrate your special anniversary, may the future of the U.S.-Latvia partnership inspire new dreams and deepen our shared commitment to an alliance that makes us stronger together.
