The head of the Phanar discussed with the President of Latvia the change in status of the Latvian Orthodox Church

On September 12-13, Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople visited Latvia. The head of the Phanar held a series of meetings with top officials, discussing changes in the status of the Latvian Orthodox Church. This was reported by the media.

It is reported that during the meeting, issues related to religion and ecumenical relations were discussed. During the talks, the President noted that Latvia has a strong ecumenical tradition between the main Christian denominations, as well as successful cooperation between the state and the church.

Speaker of the Latvian Parliament Daiga Mieriņa noted that after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, “the Latvian Orthodox Church separated from the Russian Orthodox Church, and the law prohibits cooperation with it.”

In turn, Patriarch Bartholomew noted that his visit to Latvia would have a positive impact on relations between the Patriarchate of Constantinople and the Latvian Orthodox Church. He also allowed for a change in the status of the LOC in the future.

“This visit is important for discussing the situation of the Orthodox community in Latvia. It is also an opportunity to restore historical ties and cooperation with the Patriarchate of Constantinople for the benefit of both believers and society as a whole,” — Patriarch Bartholomew said.

On September 11, 2025, Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović paid an official visit to the Patriarchate of Constantinople. The politician met with Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople and other high-ranking representatives of the Phanar.