President of Latvia awards the Three Star Order to the US Ambassador to Latvia Catherine Todd Bailey

US Ambassador to Latvia Catherine Todd Bailey receiving the Three Star Order from the President of Latvia Vaira Vike-Freiberga

The President of Latvia Vaira Vike-Freiberga presented the Three Star Order to the US Ambassador to Latvia Catherine Todd Bailey and stressed the Ambassador’s particular personal contribution to the co-operation between the countries.

When awarding the order the President said that the Three Star Order symbolizing the unity of the people of Latvia had been established right after the declaration of independence of Latvia. According to Vaira Vike-Freiberga the USA has never recognized the occupation of Latvia and has always understood the values of freedom and independence. Latvia has always appreciated that the USA is its strong ally and partner and all US ambassadors to Latvia have significantly contributed to the development of the bilateral relations between the countries. However, the President pointed out Catherine Todd Bailey’s personal contribution and enthusiasm as well as commitment to her work. Vaira vike-Freiberga stressed that the Ambassador has been a supporter and friend of Latvia and has had a deep concern about the welfare of the Latvian people and the future of Latvia. The President said that the conference “Judicial Ethics, Reform, Transparency” taking place in Riga today is a confirmation of that. Vaira Vike-Freiberga pointed out the Ambassador’s work in organizing conferences, in economic co-operation issues and attraction of investments as well as in defence area where there has been large co-operation between Latvia and the USA, including the successful organization of the NATO Summit in Riga. The President also appreciated the fact that during 18 months US President George W. Bush has twice visited Latvia.

Catherine Todd Bailey sincerely thanked Latvia for receiving its highest order and said that every day when passing the Monument of Freedom she appreciates the work and love for the country’s independence people have devoted to the symbol of their independence by donating for it. The Ambassador highly appreciated President Vaira Vike-Freiberga’s contribution during her presidency as “an example of what can be done by hard work, by overcoming difficulties and achieving one’s aims.”