Last week, a spectacular concert was held in Riga Cathedral in honour of the 20th anniversary of the accession of the Czech Republic and the Republic of Latvia to the European Union. This important cultural and political moment was celebrated with the participation of selected guests and the public in the historical environment of the cathedral through music as a language that unites everyone without distinction.

The virtuoso bringing together a number of nationalities for this evening was the Czech organist Michal Novenko, who became famous all over the world for his performances on the organ. Novenko's art won the hearts of the audience and gave the whole event a noble character.

The Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Latvia, Martin Vítek, introduced the concert with a presentation of historical moments connecting the Czech Republic and Latvia over the years. From the accession of both countries to the EU, through joint cultural projects, to bilateral cooperation in the field of economics and politics. He also introduced with the Year of Czech Music and the 200th anniversary of the birth of Bedřich Smetana, one of the most famous Czech composers.

To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the accession of the Czech Republic and the Republic of Latvia to the European Union, distinguished guests from both countries, as well as representatives of government and European institutions and the diplomatic corps, gathered in the Riga Cathedral. During the concert, musical compositions by Bedřich Smetana, Antonín Dvořák, Bohuslav Martinů, Jazeps Vītols and the organist Michal Novenko himself were performed. As a pleasant surprise, there were also the anthems of the Czech Republic, the Republic of Latvia and an improvisation on the theme of the anthem of the European Union — Ludwig van Beethoven's Ode to Joy.

There is no doubt that the twenty-year cooperation between the Czech Republic and Latvia within the European Union is a successful example of mutual solidarity and cooperation between states. The celebration of this important anniversary at Riga Cathedral was a great opportunity to remember these values and celebrate the successes that have been achieved.