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It is important that the EU Member States demonstrate solidarity in dealing with migration issues, the Minister emphasised. He also pointed out that serious consideration should be given to addressing the root causes of migration, facilitating cooperation between the countries from which refugees are coming and the countries through which they pass, and ensuring the return of asylum seekers who do not qualify for international protection.

In a discussion on Luxembourg’s priorities in foreign affairs, the Minister Rinkevics highlighted the importance of the neighbourhood policy and maintaining a balance between the EU’s eastern and southern neighbourhoods. Minister Rinkevics called for the implementation of the cooperation priorities put forward at the Riga Summit – good governance, mobility and opportunities to enter markets.

The Latvian Foreign Minister voiced strong support for negotiations on the signing of bilateral free trade agreements. It is of particular importance for Latvia that the accord to be reached on the EU-U.S. Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership that would correspond to Latvia’s interests. The conclusion of negotiations with Japan and Vietnam is also quite important.

The Minister said he was happy that Luxembourg as part of the Presidency Trio of Italy, Latvia and Luxembourg will ensure smooth succession in work with proposals targeting economic growth and job creation. Edgars Rinkevics emphasised the special importance of continuing work on the implementation of the regulation on the European Fund for Strategic Investment, which will provide a stimulus for Member State economies. The Minister also invited Luxembourg to continue measures for the strengthening of the single market with a special focus on further reinforcement and development of the digital single market. 

The Minister expressed the hope that the work on the data protection regulation could be finalised during the Luxembourg Presidency. Edgars Rinkevics noted that one of the major priorities during the Latvian Presidency was to launch the formation of the Energy Union. The Minister stressed that a significant step is now ahead of us so as to put the agreement into effect and work on the issues concerning its management and regional cooperation.  

In the second half of 2015, the General Affairs Council is chaired by the Luxembourg Presidency of the EU Council. During Latvia’s Presidency, the General Affairs Council was chaired by the Foreign Minister of Latvia Edgars Rinkevics.