Latvia: Latvia sought to form a new right-wing government yesterday after the ruling coalition collapsed, and the president said the country's image was being damaged ahead of EU entry in May.
President Vaira Vike-Freiberga told a news conference she wanted a swift end to the crisis to ensure EU and NATO preparations remained on track.
"I will listen to all parties and see what kind of platforms they have, and then try to find the best solution," she said, but added that right-wing parties should be able to find a solution.
The right-wing coalition of Prime Minister Einars Repse resigned on Thursday. It lost its majority last week when a coalition partner quit over a personal spat between Mr Repse and his deputy.
Analysts expect a right-wing coalition to emerge eventually but quarrelling between Mr Repse and other right-wing leaders could complicate negotiations.
Latvians have lived through years of political turmoil since regaining independence from Soviet rule in 1991, but successive governments have kept integration with Europe a priority.
"I wouldn't be surprised if it takes more than a month before we find a solution," said Mr Artis Pabriks, a political scientist and member of the conservative People's Party, which is willing to work with all right-wing parties as long as Mr Repse is not prime minister. - (Reuters)