Latvia signs in the EU’s first openly gay head of state

Former foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics has become the first openly gay head of state of a European Union nation.

Rinkevics, was sworn in as Latvia’s president on Saturday in Riga.

Rinkevics, 49, first came out in 2014.

Gay marriage is illegal in Latvia, although same-sex unions are recognised.  

“The social divide in our society is too big,” he said.

“During my presidency, I will stand up for the creation of a modern and strong Latvia, for a legal and just Latvia, for the wellbeing of the people, for an inclusive and respectful society.

“And it is possible for all of us to achieve this by working together.”