On 28 June 2021, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Edgars Rinkēvičs, took part in the Ministerial Meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS for a discussion on what the coalition partners have accomplished and on progress in the fight against ISIL.
The Latvian Foreign Minister noted that the Global Coalition has made a noteworthy contribution to the strengthening of the international security system in a continued effort to stabilise the situation in the liberated territories in Syria and Iraq and by working actively on combating ISIL’s propaganda, resolving the issues of the repatriation and rehabilitation of former foreign fighters, and preventing terrorist financing. “The international community must be prepared to adopt new strategies as the threat of ISIL becomes more asymmetric and globally dispersed,” the Foreign Minister underlined.
Edgars Rinkēvičs confirmed Latvia’s commitment to support the Coalition’s efforts, including with its military experts and by directing assistance towards further stabilisation of Syria. “With our common commitment and comprehensive effort, we will ensure the enduring global defeat of ISIL,” said Edgars Rinkēvičs. In conclusion, the Minister underlined the need for preventing the spread of messages and materials supporting terrorists and violence on the online platforms.
The previous Coalition Ministerial took place in Washington, D.C. in February 2019.
Background information
The Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS was established in 2014. Its members are 83 countries and institutions that have come together to effectively fight the ISIL terrorist group and avert the threat it poses. Latvia joined the Coalition soon after its establishment.
In its efforts to support the achievement of the Coalition’s goals, Latvia is participating in Operation Inherent Resolve. In 2020, in association with an international non-governmental organisation, “Un Ponte Per”, Latvia provided financial support for Syria to decrease violence against women and girls in the north of Syria, the Raqqah region, including in refugee camps.