Indian scientist and Ukrainian athlete given Latvian citizenship by Saeima

Michuda – or Mičudas as he becomes – has been living in Latvia since 2022 to continue his canoeing career. He trains at the Limbaži District Sports School, participates in the preparation process of Latvian athletes, learns Latvian and integrates into Latvian society. The athlete wants to connect his future professional and personal life with Latvia, as well as represent Latvia in international competitions and the Olympic Games. He has previously participated in Latvian, European and world championships.

Photo: Foto: Ieva Ābele-Ozoliņa, Saeima

Vishwanath – now Višvanata – on the other hand, has a PhD in computer science, and her professional activities are related to information and communication technologies, data science, artificial intelligence, and pharmaceutical research.

Since 2019, the scientist's life and professional activities have been connected with Latvia and the Latvian Academy of Sciences. She works as the head of the artificial intelligence laboratory, developing pharmaceutical research. The scientist collaborates with Latvian scientists and participates in science and innovation development initiatives. She connects her future with Latvia and is learning the Latvian language.

Photo: Foto: Ieva Ābele-Ozoliņa, Saeima

Usually, citizens of other countries wishing to take Latvian citizenship are required to satisfy lengthy residency requirements and then pass Latvian language and cultural history examinations in order to naturalise. However, the Saeima has the right to confer citizenship to persons deemed to possess special merit or who find themselves in exceptional circumstances without having to undergo the usual naturalisation process.

Congratulations to both new citizens.

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