If Russia does not sell gas to Europe, there are other options

“If Russia no longer sells gas to Latvia, to Europe, in the worst case, we have elsewhere to buy from. We will see if Russia will really be ready not to sell gas, because it also means giving up the money we send for this gas, ”said Kariņš.

However, commenting on the possible rise in gas prices, the Prime Minister emphasized that “we have an underground gas storage facility” and there should be no problems this season. At the same time, he acknowledged that attention should be paid to the next heating season.

“It simply came to our notice then. Look to the next season. “Latvenergo’s liquefied gas cargo has already been ordered, which can be moored in Klaipeda and pumped to Inčukalns,” said Kariņš.

In turn, asked about the state’s intention to create new wind farms of strategic importance On state-owned land, entrusting the implementation of this project to a joint venture established by AS Latvenergo and AS Latvijas Valsts meži, Kariņš revealed that the goal is to make Latvia an exporter of electricity.

“The plan is to install such large wind capacities by 2026 that Latvia would no longer be an importer of electricity, but an exporter.

The investment is planned to be very large, but Latvenergo has calculated that it can be done without asking for a single cent, no subsidies, ”said Kariņš.

At the same time, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that our entrepreneurs will be able to adapt to the situation if the Russian market closes for certain sectors.

“It must be remembered that 92% of all our trade is not with Russia. We have 8% left with Russia. If we think like it was in 2000, it is like day and night, then we were almost completely addicted,” Karin said.

The head of government noted that in certain sectors this share is higher, however, he expressed confidence that Latvian entrepreneurs will be able to adapt if the Russian market closes.

“Our entrepreneurs have proven time and time again and again – if the Russian market closes, then find other markets. In the past, cheap milk powder went to Russia, it ended, now expensive cheese goes to Sweden,” said Kariņš.

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