Today, an open event dedicated to the Day of the Armed Forces of Spain will take place in Old Riga. Residents and tourists will see military equipment, learn about the service of Spanish soldiers in Latvia, and be offered to try paella.
On Saturday, a section of Kalku Street in Old Riga will transform into a venue for the Spanish military celebration. The event, dedicated to the Day of the Armed Forces of Spain, will take place from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM between November 11 Embankment and Town Hall Square.
Residents and visitors of the capital will be able to see samples of military equipment, interact with representatives of the Spanish contingent, and try one of the most famous dishes of Spanish cuisine — paella.
The Spanish embassy notes that the Day of the Armed Forces in the country is traditionally celebrated on the Saturday closest to May 30. The main goal is to showcase the everyday work of the army and its participation in international missions.
For Latvia, this holiday has a separate context. Spanish military personnel have been in the country for nine years as part of NATO's enhanced presence.
During this time, the number of the Spanish contingent has nearly doubled — from approximately 350 to over 600 servicemen. Currently, it is one of the largest groups of allied forces in Latvia.
It is also important to note that previously such events were mainly held at or near military bases. This year, the celebration has been decided to be held in the center of Riga for the first time and to be open to the general public.
This means that the event is aimed not only at military personnel and official guests but also at ordinary residents of the city, who will have the opportunity to get to know Latvia's NATO allies better.
The Spanish Ambassador to Latvia, Manuel Alama Orenes, thanked the Latvian side for their cooperation and the warm welcome extended to Spanish military personnel over the years.
According to him, Spain considers it a great honor to serve alongside Latvian soldiers, and the event itself is conceived as a sign of gratitude for support and friendship.
The celebration will conclude in the afternoon, but movement and an increased number of people in Old Riga may persist longer than usual.
