We are very fortunate to live in Latvia, as we are a superpower when it comes to great trees. Last year, at least 16,000 great trees had been identified in our country, but the actual numbers are likely even higher. This year, thanks to the European Tree of the Year competition, in which a great tree from Latvia—the Aģe Great Oak—is participating for the first time, we have the opportunity to share our story with the old continent as well. At the same time, caring for these great trees places a responsibility on us to recognise their value and the risks they face in the shadow of climate change.

The European Tree of the Year competition has been running for 12 years, and this is the first year that Latvia will be represented. I am entering the European-level competition with the Aģe Great Oak and its story of liberation. The purpose of the European Tree of the Year is to highlight the importance of trees in cultural and historical heritage that deserve attention and care. Unlike other competitions, the European Tree of the Year does not focus on beauty, size, or age, but rather on the tree's story and its connection to people. This is an event with added value.