Latvia's foreign minister mistakenly claimed that exports to Russia had decreased by 70-80%, while official statistics indicate a decline of only around 25%.
In a recent discussion on the LTV show "What's Happening in Latvia?", host Jānis Domburs questioned Foreign Minister Baiba Braže, from the New Unity party, about Latvia's trade performance with Russia. He presented a comparison between Latvia and Estonia regarding their respective export figures to Russia, highlighting a more significant decline in Estonia. Domburs challenged Braže to take more concrete actions rather than merely urging non-cooperation with Russia.
Minister Braže asserted that customs data indicated a drastic reduction of more than 70-80% in Latvia's exports to Russia. However, this assertion was quickly countered by official data from the Central Statistical Bureau, which reported a total decline in export value of about 25% since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This discrepancy raises questions about the accuracy of the minister's statements and the potential implications for trade policy and public perception.
Braže's advisor, Signe Znotiņa-Znota, admitted in a phone call that the minister's remarks were incorrect, and the misrepresentation could lead to a lack of public trust in governmental statistics and statements. The incident underscores the importance of accurate information in the context of international relations and trade, especially during volatile geopolitical circumstances.
