Kulbergs secures National Alliance support for new government

Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs says his United List party and the National Alliance have agreed to cooperate on forming a new government and dividing responsibilities, LSM reported. The two parties hold 51 seats in the Saeima, Latvia’s parliament.

Kulbergs, whom the president has tasked with forming the government, named national security, tighter control of public finances, economic growth and an efficient public administration as priorities. He said a coalition between the two parties could make decisions quickly and with a unified approach.

The National Alliance has been asked to nominate candidates on Monday for the interior, welfare and culture portfolios. Kulbergs has also asked Defence Minister Raivis Melnis to remain in the next government. Talks on policy and the terms of cooperation are continuing, with documents being prepared for signing.

Kulbergs said he had spoken with all potential partners and considered their positions before deciding to work with the National Alliance, citing the parties’ long-standing cooperation and similar views.

Latvia First leader Ainārs Šlesers has previously pledged support for such a government. His party has 17 lawmakers, but has said it would find it difficult to back the government as a whole if National Alliance member Jānis Dombrava remained interior minister.

Kulbergs said all partners in earlier talks had supported the proposed priorities. He also plans to strengthen cooperation with opposition parties, including by meeting them regularly.