On 13 August 2025, the State Border Guard welcomed a delegation from the French Embassy in Latvia, led by the Ambassador of France to Latvia, Manuel Lafont Rapnouil. During the visit, the guests got familiarised with the work of the State Border Guard’s Ludza Board, Aviation and Special Operations Board, and Daugavpils Board, as well as discussed current border security issues and prospects for further cooperation.
In the Ludza Board, the delegation visited the Opoli Border Guard Unit, where they were presented with the current situation on the Latvian–Russian state border, the challenges faced by border guards, and the engineering measures being implemented as part of the Baltic Defence Line. At the Terehova Border Control Point, the guests observed border control procedures, the management of passenger and vehicle flows, as well as measures to limit illegal migration.
At the Aviation and Special Operations Board, the delegation was introduced to technical equipment and the use of aircraft for border surveillance and support of special operations. Possible areas of cooperation with French partners were also discussed.
In the Daugavpils Board, at the Piedruja Border Guard Unit, the delegation learned about the situation on the Latvian–Belarusian state border, ongoing border infrastructure development works, and technical solutions for preventing illegal migration. The visit concluded at the Apoļinovščina observation tower, where the guests viewed the border fence, serpentine barriers, and a bridge.
The French Ambassador emphasized Latvia’s importance in ensuring the security of the European Union’s external border and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to observe the professional work and infrastructure of the State Border Guard on site.
The visit took place in a constructive and friendly atmosphere, confirming both countries’ commitment to continuing cooperation in the field of border security, including training and the exchange of experience.