Kulbergs and Progressives find common ground but clash on key issues

Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs and the Progressives disagree over temporary residence permits and the transit of Russian grain, but see common ground on state administration and governance of state-owned companies, LSM reported after Friday’s coalition talks.

The two-hour meeting covered a wide range of issues, including the so-called timber processors’ case, which had not been discussed before. Kulbergs said both sides support making the management of state-owned companies more professional, reducing political influence and the risk of corruption. They also discussed the idea of a Latvia Development Fund.

The parties agreed on fair and transparent use of state forest resources, with priority given to creating higher value-added products in Latvia, Kulbergs said.

Kulbergs said the Progressives also accepted his proposed working model: a short government declaration, a separate plan of reforms for parliament and mission letters for ministers. The sides also shared a view on reviewing politicians’ expenses, including MPs’ compensation and ministers’ representation expenses.

The Progressives said specific spending cuts had not been identified and that the next steps in the talks remained unclear. The composition of a coalition was not discussed. Kulbergs is due to continue talks next week.