David Kaye becomes first Honorary Consul of Latvia in Glasgow for almost 60 years

The Honorary Consul represents the interests for Latvians in the district and strengthens the partnership between Latvia and Glasgow in culture, tourism and economic links. Latvia’s first honorary consulate in the city was opened in 1922, however Mr Kaye is the first person to hold the position since Latvia regained independence in 1991.

Mr Kaye, an experienced business adviser who is also recognised as Scotland’s leading franchising lawyer, said: “I am really honoured to have been selected for this prestigious appointment and really enthusiastic about the role and the opportunity that I have to represent and promote the Latvian population in Glasgow. I have been to Latvia on several occasions now and have been really impressed by the warmth of the welcome that has been extended to me on each occasion.”

The event was the focal point of the first trip to Scotland by the recently appointed ambassador, who also met with Lord Provost Sadie Docherty at Glasgow City Chambers beforehand.

The ambassador was able to meet with the Cabinet Secretary following the event, while the Latvian party also visited an exhibition by Latvian artist Ella Kruglyanksaya at the city’s Tramways and stopped by the popular My Home Bakery, run by Latvians in the west end of Glasgow.

She said: “It’s a particular pleasure for me to come to Glasgow and Scotland, where we Latvians have always felt a real connection. There are a lot of synergies between our countries and I’m delighted that David has agreed to serve and represent Latvians in what is really a reopening for us, given our history in Glasgow.”

Latvia, which is now accessible in less than three hours through direct flights from Glasgow Airport to Riga, will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its original declaration of independence in 2018.