RIGA, June 1. /TASS/. Latvia should build its relations with Russia only in a dialogue, presidential candidate from the biggest opposition party, Social-Democratic Party "Harmony", representing the interests of Russian-speaking population, told TASS on Monday.
"It is extremely silly on each of the sides to concentrate troops and armaments," Sergey Dolgopolov said. "Guns and rifles tend to shoot, sometimes even against the wish of those who have them in hands. That is why it is a certain risk that nobody needs," he continued.
- Moscow says Latvia turns a blind eye to nationalists stirring up ethnic hatred
- Latvian police detain prominent human rights activist
- Latvian presidential adviser admits Russia’s policy can’t be changed by sanctions
- Russia’s ambassador summoned to Latvia’s Foreign Ministry over interview
- Moscow says falsification of history in Latvia is part of purposeful policy
Dolgopolov said he was skeptical about chances to be elected. "Frankly speaking I don’t think my chances are good, as the Harmony’s faction has 24 votes in the parliament, which is insufficient to elect me, and allies are needed to speak about prospects in earnest," he said.
"These elections are important for the party that nominated me. Harmony is not only the biggest and popular in Latvia party, but has a team that can apply to any leading position in the republic," he added.
The parliamentary election in Latvia will be held at a parliamentary session on June 3. Under the Constitution, the president is elected by the Seim (parliament).
The candidate has to secure support from 51 parliamentarians of 100. The head of state performs mainly representative function. The executive power belongs to the government, while the legislative - to the parliament. The president cannot stay in office longer than eight years.
The term of the incumbent president, Andris Berzins, expires on July 7, 2015. He said he was not going to run for reelection.