RIGA, June 2 (LETA) - Latvia and Ukraine plan to sign a drone cooperation agreement in the near future, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (United List) announced at a press conference on Monday.

The politician met with Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on Monday. During the meeting, the officials discussed cooperation in the economic and defense sectors, as well as Ukraine’s progress toward joining the European Union (EU).

The Prime Minister noted that discussions with Svyrydenko focused on future work regarding technology transfer from Ukraine to facilitate the development of drone manufacturing in both Latvia and Ukraine. He said it was understood that there are no obstacles preventing this agreement from being concluded in the near future.

He also noted that he had received confirmation from Svyrydenko that Ukrainian experts, who are best equipped to stop, detect, and neutralize drones, will arrive in Latvia in the coming weeks.

Kulbergs mentioned that the cooperation agreement will cover issues related to expertise, technology, and co-production, as well as the green corridor. The agreement also provides for Latvia to maintain its 0.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) in support of Ukraine and for the involvement of Ukrainian experts in Latvia.

At the same time, Kulbergs emphasized that Latvia continues to support Ukraine in the energy sector as well. On Tuesday, the prime ministers of both countries will make a joint visit to a thermal power plant, where Latvia is reportedly ready to transfer a thermal power plant unit to Ukraine.

Svyrydenko noted that she highly appreciated Latvia’s support for Ukraine, including its readiness to provide practical assistance in strengthening Ukraine’s energy grid. She also emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to send its experts to Latvia to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities in countering drone threats.

As reported, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko will be visiting Latvia until Tuesday, June 2.

Today, Sviridenko will meet with Saeima Speaker Daiga Mierina (Greens/Farmers) as well as with President Edgars Rinkevics.