Economic challenges faced by the eastern border regions must be recognised at the European Union (EU) level, the prime ministers of the three Baltic states agreed on Friday during a meeting in Riga.
The meeting of the prime ministers of the Baltic Council of Ministers, chaired by Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa (New Unity), brought together Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal and Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė. The meeting marked the conclusion of Latvia’s presidency of the Baltic Council of Ministers in 2025.
The heads of government discussed key regional security issues, progress in the implementation of the Rail Baltica railway project, and the Baltic states’ shared interests in negotiations on the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework.
“2025 has been a challenging year for the Baltic states, but also a year of close cooperation. We completed our disconnection from the BRELL electricity grid, strengthened the security of our region and the EU’s external border, made progress on the construction of Rail Baltica, and worked closely together in support of Ukraine,” Siliņa said, reflecting on the past year.
The prime ministers jointly reaffirmed their shared goal of allocating 5% of gross domestic product (GDP) to defence in 2026.
Siliņa emphasised that by committing to 5% defence spending, the Baltic states are strengthening NATO, as these funds will be used to reinforce both national and Alliance defence capabilities.
The Baltic leaders also confirmed close cooperation on external border security and countering hybrid threats. “We will continue to resist pressure from illegal migration at the border with Belarus. Such attacks, including balloon incidents in Lithuania and Latvia, are dangerous and unacceptable,” Siliņa said.
The heads of government expressed support for the European Commission’s proposals to strengthen security and defence, while also stressing the need for the EU to recognise the economic challenges faced by eastern border regions.
The prime ministers agreed that the EU budget must enhance competitiveness and ensure fair competition in agriculture.
Siliņa thanked Lithuania and Estonia for their support in Latvia’s preparations for its role on the United Nations Security Council. “We will defend not only Latvia’s interests, but also those of the Baltic states and Europe as a whole. We are taking on this responsibility with full commitment,” the prime minister said.
The prime ministers of Lithuania and Estonia likewise highlighted the importance of unity among the three Baltic states and the security of the region in their remarks.
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