President Explains Absence from Paris Cathedral Reopening
Latvian President Stands by Decision to Skip Notre Dame Reopening
Riga, Latvia – Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs defended his decision to skip the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, stating he prioritized commitments to Latvian citizens and events.
Speaking at a press conference following a meeting with Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, Rinkēvičs explained that he had already committed to hosting ”Music in Riga Castle,” an event featuring prominent Latvian artists and guests from various regions and sectors.
“the invitation to Paris came late,” Rinkēvičs said. “After weighing the pros and cons, and knowing the nature of such events from my time as Foreign Minister, I made the right decision. As I wrote on Twitter, ‘My cathedral and my people.'”
He acknowledged that opinions on his decision vary, but maintained that the Notre Dame reopening was primarily symbolic and did not lead to any meaningful policy decisions.
“Choosing to honor commitments to Latvian people, fulfilling promises, and adhering to my schedule is a more responsible and critically important decision than attending a single evening event, no matter how significant,” Rinkēvičs stated.”I am pleased for the reopening of Notre Dame, but I acted appropriately and do not regret my choice.”
The president emphasized the importance of prioritizing Latvian interests and obligations, stating that attending the Paris event would have meant breaking promises and neglecting pre-existing commitments.
The Notre Dame Cathedral reopened on December 7th after five and a half years of restoration following a devastating fire in 2019. The ceremony was attended by numerous French and international dignitaries.
Latvian President Stands Firm on Decision to Skip Notre Dame Reopening
Riga, Latvia – Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs defended his decision to skip the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, asserting that he chose to prioritize commitments to Latvian citizens and events.
Addressing the media following a meeting with Prime Minister Evika Siliņa, Rinkēvičs explained that he had a prior commitment to host “Music in Riga Castle,” an event showcasing prominent Latvian artists alongside guests from diverse fields.
“The invitation to Paris came late,” Rinkēvičs stated. “After considering both sides and drawing on my experience as Foreign Minister, I believe I made the right choice.”
He acknowledged differing opinions on his decision but emphasized that the Notre Dame reopening was primarily symbolic and lacked immediate policy implications.
“Prioritizing commitments to Latvian people, fulfilling promises, and adhering to my schedule is a more responsible and crucial decision than attending a single evening event, nonetheless of its significance,” Rinkēvičs declared. “I am happy about the Notre dame reopening, but I acted appropriately and have no regrets.”
The president underscored the importance of prioritizing Latvian interests and obligations, stating that attending the Paris event would have meant reneging on promises and neglecting pre-existing commitments.
The Notre Dame Cathedral reopened on December 7th after five and a half years of restoration following the devastating 2019 fire.The ceremony was attended by numerous French and international dignitaries.