RIGA, May 4 (Xinhua) -- Latvia held a series of events across the country on Sunday to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its independence.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics, along with other government officials and representatives of the public, laid flowers at the Freedom Monument in the capital Riga.
Speaking at a celebratory session in the parliament, Rinkevics said "The world security and economic order are currently in a free fall. And we do not know where and how this world will land. Yet in this anxious era, amid all the noise, we must each remain clear-headed, listen to our inner voice, and respond with decisive action."
The Supreme Council of Latvia, then a republic of former Soviet Union, adopted the declaration "On the Restoration of Independence of the Republic of Latvia". In 2000, the Latvian parliament formally designated May 4 as Day of Restoration of Independence through a resolution.
The Day of Restoration of Independence remains one of Latvia's most significant national observances. This year's celebrations featured parades, concerts, exhibitions, and sporting events. Citizens also shared images and videos of the celebrations on social media. ■
