Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles welcomed her Latvian counterpart, Andris Sprūds, to Madrid on Thursday during an official visit aimed at reinforcing bilateral cooperation in defence and industrial matters, as well as both nations’ shared commitment to security and stability within NATO and the European Union.

The meeting, held at the Spanish Ministry of Defence headquarters, reaffirmed the strong ties between Spain and Latvia, highlighting joint efforts in defence industry collaboration, technological exchange, and international operations coordination.

Spain currently maintains a significant military presence in Latvia, contributing troops to the NATO multinational battlegroup at Ādaži military base, and deploying a NASAMS air defence battery at Lielvarde air base.

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Spain and Latvia strengthen defence and industrial cooperation during the meeting between Ministers Margarita Robles and Andris Sprūds

Minister Robles emphasised that “Spain’s participation in these missions reflects our firm commitment to defending NATO’s eastern flank, contributing to the security of Latvia and the other Baltic republics.” She also underscored Spain’s continued involvement in the Baltic Air Policing mission, which ensures air security in the region.

Minister Sprūds expressed his gratitude for Spain’s contribution to regional security and conveyed Latvia’s willingness to enhance industrial cooperation between the two nations.

As part of his visit, Minister Sprūds is scheduled to tour several Spanish defence industry facilities, including the GDELS–Santa Bárbara Systems factory in Trubia (Asturias), a key production site for advanced armoured vehicles.

This visit reaffirms the strategic partnership between Spain and Latvia within NATO, built on mutual trust, technological collaboration, and the shared defence of European democratic values.