Latvian Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs has begun official talks on forming a new government by meeting with leaders of his United List alliance and its current coalition partners, the National Alliance and New Unity, LETA reports. Kulbergs said that the parties had reached a consensus on improving public administration, reviewing ministry functions, and putting public finances in order. According to LTV, New Unity’s nominee for defence minister, Raivis Melnis, could continue in his post, while United List’s Edgars Tavars could remain as minister for regional development, LSM reported. Other possible cabinet nominations include United List’s Edgars Stelmahers for economy minister, Citadele Banka economist Karlis Purgailis for finance minister, and diplomat Edgars Skuja for foreign minister. However, New Unity would like current foreign minister Baiba Braže to continue in her post, DELFI reported. Also, the National Alliance’s Janis Dombrava would like to remain as minister of interior, LETA reported. Meanwhile, the current justice minister, United List’s Edvards Smiltens, could become the next speaker of the Latvian parliament, the Saeima, LSM reported.
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