Poet Māra Zālīte Receives Latvia's Statehood Award

President Edgars Rinkēvičs honored poet and playwright Māra Zālīte with the Statehood Award at Riga Castle on Friday. Rinkēvičs praised Zālīte for her ability to express Latvia's emotions in words and for her works that encourage seeing light rather than darkness in the future.

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Zālīte is a person who can express in words what Latvia feels, and her works encourage seeing light in the future, not darkness.

The ceremony coincided with the 35th anniversary of Latvia's Supreme Council restoring the country's de facto independence. The president thanked the politicians of that era and the "stubborn and wise nation." He noted that Latvia is always at a crossroads and must remain vigilant, especially amidst current uncertainties and dangers.

With elections approaching in October, Rinkēvičs called for continued vigilance and a cool head, advising against succumbing to "momentary delusions." He stressed the importance of remembering the past and understanding what is necessary to preserve national freedom and life, urging citizens to listen to their inner selves and wise minds.

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Our Latvia was, is, and always will be at a crossroads. There will always be chariot wheels, horseshoes, and iron. We must always be vigilant. Especially now, especially today, when there is again much uncertainty, danger, and delusion.

The Statehood Award was established in 2021 by the association "4th of May Declaration Club" to recognize individuals who strengthen Latvia's statehood and promote public understanding of its importance. The award is given annually to one recipient for contributions to strengthening Latvia's state structure, democratic principles, rule of law, national identity, and other core values.

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We remember our past very well, and we know and understand very well what we need to do not to lose our country's freedom and life. Let us listen to ourselves and our wise minds.