Kulbergs reaches coalition deal with National Alliance as Šlesers pledges support

Andris Kulbergs said Sunday that he had reached a cooperation agreement with the National Alliance, while Latvia First leader Ainārs Šlesers said he and some of his party’s MPs would support Kulbergs’ government, Latvian public broadcaster LSM reported.

Kulbergs called on his partners to nominate candidates on Monday for the interior, welfare and culture portfolios. The agreement includes placing the Culture Ministry under the National Alliance, but the party’s board is to make the final decision after reviewing the deal.

The National Alliance had objected to the proposed division of responsibilities and ministerial posts. It also sought assurances that the United List, which nominated Kulbergs for prime minister, would not reach an agreement with Latvia First.

Although Kulbergs initially said talks would continue with all parties, coalition negotiations in practice proceeded only with the National Alliance. The United List had previously met with representatives of three parliamentary groups: New Unity, the Progressives and the National Alliance.