Valdis Zatlers

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[[File: Valdis Zatlers (born 22 March 1955) is a prominent Latvian politician and physician, best known for serving as the President of Latvia from 2007 to 2011. Before his presidency, Zatlers was a respected orthopedic surgeon and the director of the Latvian Traumatology and Orthopaedics Hospital.

Early Life and Education

Valdis Zatlers was born in Riga, the capital of Latvia, then part of the Soviet Union. He pursued his medical education at the Riga Medical Institute, now known as the Riga Stradiņš University, where he specialized in orthopedic surgery. After completing his studies, Zatlers dedicated his career to medicine, particularly in the field of orthopedics, gaining recognition for his expertise and contributions to the field.

Medical Career

Before entering the political arena, Zatlers had a distinguished medical career. He worked at the Latvian Traumatology and Orthopaedics Hospital, where he eventually became the director. His work in medicine, especially in orthopedic surgery, earned him a reputable standing in the Latvian medical community.

Political Career

Valdis Zatlers's transition from medicine to politics occurred in 2007 when he was elected the President of Latvia. His nomination was somewhat unexpected, as he was not widely known in political circles at the time. However, his reputation as a professional and his outsider status were seen as assets in a political landscape seeking transparency and integrity.

During his presidency, Zatlers focused on several key areas, including anti-corruption measures, judicial reform, and fostering national unity. One of his most notable actions as president was the dissolution of the Saeima (Latvian Parliament) in 2011, following controversies over the parliament's refusal to sanction a search at the home of a prominent politician suspected of corruption. This move led to early elections and was seen as a bold step in fighting corruption in Latvia.

After his presidency, Zatlers continued to be involved in Latvian politics. He founded the Reform Party, which participated in the 2011 parliamentary elections and became part of the governing coalition.

Legacy

Valdis Zatlers is remembered for his efforts to combat corruption and strengthen the rule of law in Latvia. His presidency is often cited as a period of significant change in Latvian politics, with a focus on transparency and democratic values. After leaving office, Zatlers remained an influential figure in Latvian public life, contributing to discussions on national and international issues.

See Also

• Politics of Latvia
• List of Presidents of Latvia