An exhibit showcasing the work of Latvian diplomats in exile has been opened in Rīga by Foreign Minister Sandra Kalniete.

The exhibit is titled “Latvijas valstiskuma sardzē: Latvijas diplomātiskā un konsulārā dienesta darbinieki okupācijas gados trimdā no 1940. gada 17. jūnija līdz 1991. gada 21. augustam” (“Guarding Latvian Statehood: Latvia’s Diplomatic and Consular Staff in Exile During the Occupation, From 17 June 1941 to 21 August 1991”).

In arranging the exhibit, the Foreign Ministry made use of private archives as well as its own and those held by the Latvian State Historical Archive, according to a press release from the ministry.

The exhibit is on display from Jan. 28 in the Foreign Ministry.

“The period since the renewal of independence,” the press release noted, “has shown that the work of diplomatic and consular staff in exile was essential in determining the nation’s course and its current international legal status.”