NATO has taken a decision to allocate more than EUR 160 million for the development of a military port in the area of Karosta Port in Liepaja, Defense Minister Andris Spruds (Progressives) posted to Twitter.
The project envisages construction of new berths, development of supporting infrastructure and dredging works. The project will significantly improve Latvia’s ability to host NATO forces, said Spruds.
The Defense Ministry has not yet released further details about the project.
Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) also visited Liepaja on Friday and discussed the plans for the development of the military port with officials of the National Armed Forces (NBS) Headquarters and the Navy, LETA was informed by the Prime Minister’s Office.
“The decision on EUR 160 million NATO funding for the development of the Liepaja Military Port will strengthen our country’s defense capabilities and will also be a significant contribution to the economy of Liepaja,” the Prime Minister said.
According to the Prime Minister, Liepaja is “on a stable development path, which needs to be continued by supporting investors’ projects, reducing bureaucratic requirements, strengthening competitive education and supporting the NBS plans to develop the military port in the Liepaja Karosta”.
“Liepaja is at the same time a center of culture, tourism and manufacturing. (…) In recent years, new manufacturing companies have sprung up very rapidly. It is important that the city’s infrastructure continues to develop, where the right investment of European Union funds and other financial sources, as well as reduced bureaucratic requirements, play an important role,” Silina added.
In 2020, the Defense Ministry said that that a military base would be established in Liepaja in an area of 35 hectares.
Source: BNS
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