VALIC and Canadian representatives discuss cooperation opportunities with the defence industry

At the end of October 2026, the Head of the State Defence Logistics and Procurement Centre, Lieutenant Colonel Alans Andrulis, met with Canada’s Defence Attaché to Latvia, Colonel Philippe Sauvé, and Counsellor for Commercial Affairs at the Canadian Embassy and Senior Trade Commissioner for the Baltic region, Nicolas Lepage.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss cooperation with the defence industry, as well as to define the role of local industry in sustainment and strengthening supply chains.

Canada is the framework nation of the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia (NATO MNB-LVA) deployed in Latvia. This status makes cooperation between Canadian and Latvian industries particularly important, as it enables the integration of local capabilities with international defence opportunities.

During the meeting, Andrulis presented VALIC’s strategy and principles for cooperation with industry, emphasising that the Centre aims to build sustainable partnerships with companies capable of delivering high-quality, secure, and innovation-driven solutions. He highlighted that thorough market research and the development of joint projects with industry contribute to efficient logistics processes in the defence sector and strengthen supply security.

The discussion also underscored the importance of open communication and timely information exchange. Mutually beneficial cooperation creates opportunities for companies to engage in defence procurement, while enhancing the state’s independence, flexibility, and ability to respond to emerging challenges.