Simon Anholt worked with the Government of Latvia during 2008 to establish a national plan, as well as mechanisms for innovation, collaboration and investment across all sectors of government, civil society and business.
Ojars Kalninš, Director of the Latvian Institute and former Latvian Ambassador to the United States, had this to say at the end of the project:
"Over a six month period, from April until December 2007, Simon Anholt worked closely with a variety of groups in the Latvian public and private sector, including the Prime Minister, as well as the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Economics, Culture and Regional Development. In the process he not only helped us get a better understanding of Latvia’s image internationally and domestically, but also helped define and prioritize those actions which our government could realistically undertake in order to bring about the results we sought.
Simon Anholt’s rigorous methodology and penetrating analysis convinced even the greatest skeptics that his approach was the right one. His creative flair and compelling persuasiveness both delighted and inspired many of the people he worked with. Simon Anholt’s Competitive Identity Strategy for Latvia did not provide any easy answers or simple solutions. It was a frank, realistic and pragmatic assessment of what could and should be done. It was both bold and surprising, while also logical and compelling. It was exactly what we needed.
It was a rare privilege and pleasure to work with Simon Anholt, and I would recommend him to anyone committed to the long term interests and welfare of their country."