Rolands Lappuķe has been named Latvia’s new ambassador to France. He replaces Sandra Kalniete, who earlier this month was appointed Latvia’s new foreign minister in the government led by Prime Minister Einars Repše.

Lappuķe has been serving as the ambassador to Portugal.

Lappuķe intends to foster direct relationships between French and Latvian regional and municipal governments, as well as between citizens of both nations, according to an announcement from the office of President Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga.

The president presented Lappuķe with a letter of accreditation during a meeting in Rīga.