Latvia, Legislation

Laimdota Straujuma and Raimonds Vejonis.

Straujuma told reporters that during her government's term in office, two state budgets had been passed and the economic situation in Latvia had improved. "I believe that new ideas and new energy are needed to carry on with what has been started," said Straujuma

The outgoing premier said she was grateful to Vejonis, the ruling coalition and her government ministers for their work and support for each other. She also thanked voters who had given her a chance to work in government.

Once a new government is approved, Straujuma will return to work in Saeima.

As reported, there have been active rumors behind the scenes in recent weeks regarding a possible change to the current government. The rumors began to circulate after Straujuma dismissed Transport Minister Anrijs Matiss (Unity) this past November.

So far officials have been rather evasive in their comments. Straujuma said previously, "Every government comes to an end sooner or later. When mine is up, I will inform you."

During Unity's congress on Saturday, Straujuma said that support from the party's board and Saeima group was very important for the successful work of the government.

"I assume there are some here who expect some sort of shocking announcement. I am ready for this. I am also ready to say that this country is important to me, and is more important than some sort of post and unclear friendships," she said.

Straujuma was appointed prime minister on January 22, 2014, after then Prime Minister Valdis Dombrovskis (Unity) stepped down taking responsibility for the collapse of a Maxima supermarket in Riga's Zolitude neighborhood that killed 54 people. Straujuma became the first female premier of Latvia. After the 12th Saeima elections last fall, Straujuma was repeatedly confirmed as the prime minister.