"Latvian language, culture, history and world outlook do not belong to Latvians only. Everyone who identifies oneself with some minority is kindly welcome to participate in the life of the country by preserving one's minority culture, language, and traditions in parallel. It is a contribution to richness and diversity of Latvia's culture. (Inaugural address given at the Saeima)"

"The ideal country does not exist, as progress would discontinue. A life without ideals would be individually miserable and politically useless. (Inaugural address given at the Saeima)"

"Thirty years ago, we went out on the Baltic Way, and we regained our independence and freedom for everyone together with Estonia and Lithuania. We re-melted the Iron Curtain into a democratic and united Europe and are building a secure and peaceful future for our peoples. History evolves, and we create the future together. Our shared Baltic Way will never end. (Address given on the 30th anniversary of the Baltic Way at the Freedom Monument)"