As an expert in international relations and security alliances, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding Latvia's membership in NATO. NATO, or the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is a political and military alliance established in 1949. Its primary purpose is to provide collective defense against aggression from non-member countries. Over the years, NATO has expanded its membership to include a total of 30 countries from Europe and North America. One significant expansion occurred with the accession of seven Central and Eastern European countries. This group included Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia. These nations were first invited to start talks of membership during the 2002 Prague summit. This invitation was a strategic move to strengthen the alliance's presence in Eastern Europe and to provide a security umbrella for these countries that were once under Soviet influence. Following the invitation, these countries underwent a series of negotiations and fulfilled various criteria to join NATO. The process included political dialogue, military reforms, and economic adjustments to align with NATO standards. The accession of these countries was a significant step towards the eastward expansion of NATO, which aimed to promote stability and security in the region. Latvia, in particular, was one of the Baltic states that had been under Soviet rule until the dissolution of the USSR in 1991. After regaining its independence, Latvia pursued a policy of integration with Western institutions as a means to ensure its sovereignty and security. Joining NATO was a crucial part of this strategy. Latvia's accession to NATO was finalized shortly before the 2004 Istanbul summit, marking a new era in the country's defense and foreign policy. Membership in NATO entails several obligations and benefits for Latvia. As a member, Latvia is committed to the principle of collective defense, which is articulated in Article 5 of the NATO treaty. This principle states that an attack on one member is considered an attack on all members, triggering a collective response. Additionally, Latvia benefits from the alliance's military capabilities, intelligence sharing, and joint training exercises, which enhance its own defense capabilities. Moreover, NATO membership has also had a positive impact on Latvia's political and economic development. It has provided a platform for Latvia to engage in diplomatic dialogue with other member states, fostering stronger international relations. Economically, the requirements for NATO membership have encouraged Latvia to undertake necessary reforms, which have contributed to its overall development and integration into the global economy. In conclusion, Latvia is indeed a member of NATO, having joined the alliance in 2004. This membership has been instrumental in ensuring the country's security, fostering its political and economic development, and integrating it into the broader European and transatlantic community. The accession of Latvia and other Central and Eastern European countries has also been a strategic move for NATO to extend its reach and maintain a balance of power in the region. read more >>

Another expansion came with the accession of seven Central and Eastern European countries: Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia. These nations were first invited to start talks of membership during the 2002 Prague summit, and joined NATO shortly before the 2004 Istanbul summit.read more >>