ANKARA / ISTANBUL

Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler on Thursday received Andris Spruds, his counterpart from the Baltic nation of Latvia.

Guler hosted Spruds, visiting the capital Ankara as an official guest, with an official ceremony at the ministry.

After the national anthems of both countries were played, Spruds saluted the honor guard.

Following the ceremony, the defense chiefs held a closed-door meeting.