Latvian MPs Push for Permanent Canadian Troops

0:00It's April 29th. From your city to your ears, this is Canada News Today, powered by AI. I'm Cory with the story. A delegation of Latvian members of parliament just wrapped up a visit to Canada, pushing hard for a permanent Canadian military footprint in their country. They're leading the charge on NATO's eastern flank, where Canada heads up a battle group. Last year, Ottawa extended that commitment through 2029, and now these MPs won it locked in for good. The group is headed by Irma Kalniga, who chairs the Latvia-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Group. In a wide-ranging interview, they dove into the strong bonds between the two nations, and why keeping troops there matters big time against regional threats. Folks on both sides see this as a win for security. Strengthening NATO's resolve right on Russia's doorstep. Latvians appreciate the solidarity, especially after years of ramped up deployments since the alliance boosted its presence there. Britain talks highlighted the future of the alliance itself, with these MPs stressing

1:00that if forever Canadian presence would send a clear message of, unity. Officials are listening but no firm decisions yet on going permanent. As tensions simmer on the flank, this friendship could shape NATO's next moves, keeping the pressure on and alliances tight.