Latvia Plans To Reinforce Army At Border With Belarus And Russia 1 5.02.2016, 9:45

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PHOTO: MELKON.LV

Latvia plans to increase alert of the National Armed Forces (NAF) and increase military presence in the east of the country.

It is said in the draft governmental declaration, DELFI reports.

The new government is set to bolster the national defense, gradually stepping up financing of this sphere – to 1.7% of the GDP in 2017, 2% of the GDP in 2018. Half of the expenses are to be spending on personnel.

The government also plans to improve capabilities of the Latvian self-defense forces, increase combat readiness of the NAF, and increase military presence in the east of the country.

Besides, it is planned to raise the role and presence of the National Guard (Zemessardze (ZS) in the defense of the country, improve equipment and increase manpower, as well as to find economic incentives for businessmen, for them to ensure regular participation of their employees in exercises.