Latvia, a country in North Europe by the Baltic Sea, offers tourists an opportunity to discover and enjoy the four seasons - winter, spring, summer and autumn. Each season has its own beauty and draws travellers from around the globe to explore the unique attractions. Latvia has a wide range of offerings such as the Song and Dance Celebration, the largest choir in the world, its inclusion in the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage Festival, amber, wooden houses, fresh food, summer festivals, Art Nouveau architecture and much more.

We are happy to see that Latvia attracts travellers from different parts of the world. Even though it might not be the most common choice for Indian tourists, we are happy to observe an increase in numbers in the past years. With the growth of students from India in Latvian universities, Latvia is becoming a more known destination for travellers from the Indian subcontinent.

Latvia is co-operating with = VFS Global for visa processing in India, offering applicants the opportunity to submit visa applications at many centres across India. The list of documents as well as latest updates regarding visa processing procedures are available at the Embassy and the VFS Global webpage.

I am honoured to have come to India as we are celebrating the 100 years of established statehood of Latvia and the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, India's political and spiritual leader. This symbolic backdrop is inspirational for continuing to expand the dynamics of diplomatic, trade, educational and cultural exchange between Latvia and India. The Latvian diplomatic mission to India was opened in New Delhi in 2015. Since then, our relationship has been brought to the next level, including historic visit exchanges at the highest levels - the Speaker of the Parliament and the Prime Minister.

The size of our countries differs greatly, though we are connected through our shared beliefs in democratic values and respect to human rights, justice, rule of law and joint interests to maintain international order, which is especially crucial as we are experiencing historic shifts in the global political and economic landscape.

Latvia is also determined to play a proactive and constructive role in the EU-India partnership as those who really benefit from this dialogue are ordinary people - entrepreneurs, teachers, students and travellers.

Promoting connectivity, cultural and educational ties between Latvia and India is one of my commitments. I hope that the ever-growing interaction between our countries on various levels would result in new and direct routes between Riga and Delhi.

I have arrived in India just a few months ago and I have already been astonished by the dynamics of the country. India is an experience for all senses! The hospitality and warmth of the people, colours of everyday life, diversity of culture and languages, yet at the same time the unity of the people, as well as surprises around every corner make this posting to be a unique experience. I am looking forward to the upcoming years in India!