AN OPINION SERIES

For me, the connection between Latvia and Ireland has never been just about trade statistics or formal agreements—it is about people, trust, and shared ambition. This belief has shaped my journey for more than a decade, including my role as one of the founders of the Irish Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC).

The idea for ILCC was born back in 2011. At the time, the Latvia–Ireland relationship was full of potential but lacked a structured platform to bring people and businesses together. Initially, we considered establishing the organization in Ireland, but ultimately chose to register it in Latvia on 25 April 2012. The organization itself reflects the international nature of this relationship—its founders were an Englishman, an Irishman, and a Latvian. From the very beginning, ILCC was built as a bridge.


Over time, this bridge has extended far beyond business. One of the most important lessons I have learned is that strong economic ties are rooted in human connection—and often strengthened through culture.

We have organized events not only in Latvia but also in Ireland, including “Latvian Days in Ireland” from 2015 to 2018, and again in 2023. These initiatives have played an important role in raising Latvia’s visibility and creating opportunities for businesses, professionals, and communities to connect in a meaningful way.
One such moment came in 2017, during Zemgale Days in Ireland, when I had the opportunity to bring Latvian musician Gunārs Meijers to Ireland and introduce him to Skārleta Mukāne and Noel Lyons, founders of the Ireland-based association LatWest. What followed was a truly unique collaboration: Gunārs Meijers’ songs were translated into English, performed by Noel Lyons, and released as a CD. It was a powerful reminder that meaningful partnerships often begin outside traditional business settings.
This same philosophy is at the heart of our long-running networking format, 101 CONTACTS – Networking Evening. For more than a decade—albeit with some interruptions—we have brought people together regularly to connect in an informal yet purposeful setting. These evenings are not just about exchanging business cards; they are about creating an environment where conversations flow naturally, and relationships begin.

What makes 101 CONTACTS unique is its thematic approach. Each event has offered a different perspective—sometimes business-focused, sometimes cultural, often both. We have explored Latvia as a bridge between East and West, for example, through a Georgian-themed evening held in a Georgian restaurant in cooperation with the Georgian Embassy in Latvia. On other occasions, we have focused on the global Irish diaspora—highlighting connections with countries such as Australia or the United States. Guests not only experienced the cuisine and wines of these regions but also met people with Irish roots living in Latvia, adding a personal dimension to global stories.

In addition, we have led numerous trade missions from Latvia to Ireland, supporting companies in exploring new opportunities, meeting partners, and gaining first-hand market insights. These missions often become turning points—transforming initial interest into real cooperation.

What I find most rewarding is seeing how relationships evolve. A first introduction leads to a meeting, then to collaboration, and eventually to long-term partnerships. These are tangible outcomes: companies entering new markets, expanding operations, and building trust across borders.

The relationship itself has matured significantly. What was once largely a one-way perspective—Latvian companies looking towards Ireland—has become a balanced exchange. Irish companies increasingly recognize Latvia as a reliable and innovative partner within the European Union.

There are clear complementarities between our economies. Latvia’s strengths in timber construction, manufacturing, and digital services align well with Ireland’s globally connected business environment. Increasingly, we are seeing collaboration—not just trade.

Looking ahead, I see significant untapped potential. There is room to deepen cooperation, encourage two-way investment, and involve a broader range of companies. The Latvian diaspora in Ireland remains a powerful bridge that can be further strengthened.

My vision is for the Latvia–Ireland relationship to become truly strategic—built on long-term collaboration and shared value. And ILCC will continue to be at the center of this journey: connecting people, building trust, and turning opportunities into lasting partnerships.

Because in the end, everything starts with a connection—and the right connection can change everything.