Holidays in Latvia - International Recognition Day of the Republic of Latvia

January 26, 1921 became one of the most significant dates in the history of the modern Republic of Latvia Proclamation and recognition (de jure) of the country's independence Although this period did not last so long (until 1940), it was of great importance in the development of the state Latvia began its struggle for sovereignty back in 1914 But the act of independence was proclaimed in 1918 The first countries that recognized Latvia as a full-fledged and independent state on the world stage were France, Italy, Great Britain, Belgium and distant Japan At the end of the same year, the League of Nations accepted the Republic of Latvia into its membership Such recognition did not give full independence, but allowed the country to enter the international legal arena - to conclude treaties, to have a voice in international conferences and discussions Why is the day celebrated de jure? In 1940, the USSR forcibly included the territory of the country into its composition Until 1991 and its collapse, the country was under occupation And since 1990, obvious actions began to return independence By the way, Latvia returned to the sovereignty of the last of the Baltic states On this day, Latvians do not celebrate the holiday particularly pompously Concerts and public events are often organized This day is more accepted as a memorable date that should not be forgotten, as well as the long struggle of the Latvian people for their independence January 26 is also commonly called Diplomat's Day According to tradition, on this day flowers are laid at the cemeteries of former employees of the Latvian Foreign Ministry Various events are also held at the diplomatic level, meetings with representatives of different countries to increase the recognition of the Republic of Latvia in the international arena From 2017 to 2021, the 100th anniversary of Latvia is celebrated In honor of the anniversary, many projects and events are planned to be held in various areas of life