"When we seek common ground, we find it": New Year's address by the President of Latvia 0 10

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen!
Good evening, girls and boys!
Good evening, grandmothers and grandfathers!

We welcomed the outgoing year 2025 with hopes, joy, as well as anxiety and concerns. With doubts — will we succeed? We did! Those who believed and tried succeeded. And if it didn’t work out — it will definitely work out next year!

This year, we had many reasons for joy and pride. For the journey that took us further than we expected. For the wonderful children and youth at the Song and Dance Festival. For the achievements of our athletes.

We succeed when we work together. When we seek common ground, we find it. And we are left empty-handed if we look for an enemy in each other.

This year taught us that, above all, we must trust ourselves. That it is not someone else, but we ourselves who determine our lives and the life of our state. That the foundation of our security is us.

Security begins with our attitude towards ourselves, our loved ones, and those around us. Our choices in everyday life and during these holidays matter.

We can choose — not to drive under the influence. It is in our power — not to be indifferent. If we see a lost child on the street, we will help them, not hurry past. Our safety and the safety of those around us can be improved by something as small as a reflective vest on our clothing. And it is only up to us — to support or, on the contrary, to attack our neighbors. To walk together or to leave. It is our choice.

With small steps towards each other, we begin a common journey. Together — towards achievements. These steps give confidence where it was lacking. By taking them, there is no need to anxiously check if we are going the right way. Because we are going the right way. We are all capable of this. Both in Latgale and in Kurzeme. We are strong in Vidzeme, Zemgale, and Selonia. Our strength is in Riga and all over the world where Latvia is loved.

Dear friends!

The approach of the New Year is always a time of hope and excitement. We want to look into the future — will it be good? It will! If we are honest, responsible, and ready to help. If we are there for each other. Then we are a great force. Each of us.

So let’s start and do our part right now. To get into a current that will confirm to us that we are capable of more than we thought. And let’s invite our friends, colleagues, and classmates with us. And those who expect it the least. Those who feel lonely tonight and in everyday life. Because for each other, we are the best.

May we all have a New Year filled with mutual trust and love! Happy 2026!