The security threats generated by Russia near the borders of the European Union (EU) are real. This is why it is necessary to raise the resilience and security of EU’s eastern neighbours, said Parliamentary Secretary to the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dace Melbārde at an informal meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Poland.
As LETA was told by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, one of the main topics tackled at the meeting was European support to strengthen the resilience of partner countries.
Melbārde stressed that Latvia’s priority is continuing all forms of support for Ukraine, including the promotion of the resilience of society and strengthening the Ukrainian people. “We must continue to invest in the reconstruction of social infrastructure, rehabilitation and psycho-emotional support services, as well as in the reforms of Ukraine’s public administration on its way to the EU,” stressed the parliamentary secretary.
The ministry’s representative mentioned that 35% of the institution’s managed financing for the development of mutual cooperation was diverted to Ukraine last year.
During discussions regarding development cooperation issues, Melbārde noted that the EU needs to work hard to provide support to the most vulnerable groups in society and to move towards the sustainable development goals. The EU needs to develop a positive and pragmatic attitude and concentrate on common interests in cooperation with the new US administration and global partners, said the Latvian ministry’s representatives.
The meeting also discussed the implementation of the Global Connectivity Strategy. It aims to promote smart, clean and secure connectivity in the digital, energy and transport sectors and strengthen health, education and research systems worldwide.