Candidates for Ministerial Posts in the New Latvian Government Named

Although the first negotiations on forming a coalition and then a government only began today, possible candidates for various ministerial posts are already being discussed in the corridors. According to information available to Latvian TV, the post of Minister of Finance may be taken by the non-partisan financier **Karlis Purgailis**. Another non-partisan expert, **Normunds Stanevics**, who recently headed the board of the Eastern Hospital, may take the position of Minister of Health. At the same time, the newly elected Saeima deputy from the United List, cardiologist **Andris Skrīde**, remains a candidate for the post of Minister of Health. The portfolio of Minister of Smart Administration and Regional Development may be retained by **Edgars Tavars**. His party mate, entrepreneur **Edgars Štelmaheris**, may head the Ministry of Economics. Another new deputy from the United List, **Liga Mengelsone**, is ready to lead the Ministry of Welfare. And the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs is expected to be taken by career diplomat **Edgars Skuja**. **Raivis Melniņš** will continue to lead the Ministry of Defense.