Analytics, Energy, EU – Baltic States, Financial Services, Legislation, USA

The statement also highlights the achievements of the Baltic States and recognizes their growing role in addressing critical global security and economic issues.

"It is an important political document which proclaims the continuity of strategic cooperation between the Baltic countries and the United States on the basis of values endorsed in the Baltic Charter. It recognizes the contribution made by the Baltic States to global security and the well-being of people. It brings the United States and the Baltic countries together in fighting new military, energy and cyber security threats," the President said.

The joint statement reaffirms the commitment of four nations – the Lithuania, Latvia, and the United States – to strengthening their relations by jointly expanding trade ties in pursuit of economic prosperity, enhancing strategic cooperation to address global security challenges, and advancing democracy and human rights around the world.

The document underlines that since the restoration of independence just over two decades ago the Baltic States fulfilled the promise of the 1998 Baltic Charter, becoming valued members of NATO and the European Union. "In joining the ranks of the world's most developed economies in organizations such as OECD and the Eurozone, and assuming the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, their positive influence on global security and economic issues continues to grow," the statement says.

It highlights the geopolitical interest of the United States to strengthen ties with the Baltic and Nordic countries – the most dynamic, economically stable and secure region in Europe – and recognizes that cooperation between the Nordic and Baltic countries is crucial to success. The statement underscores that the Baltic States and the Nordics are stronger and their reach is greater when they work collaboratively and combine efforts in pursuit of common goals.

Special focus is placed on joint actions in fighting newly emerging threats. A new chapter is opened in energy security by declaring support to the Third Energy Package and energy interconnections. Strong support is also voiced to the Baltic States as they seek to ensure alternative energy supplies, promote competition and transparency in energy markets, and provide the basis for sustained economic growth in the entire region. The joint statement endorses cooperation on nuclear security.

A new chapter of collaboration is also opened in cyber security. Given the recent cyber attacks against the Baltic States, engagement on cyber issues will be strengthened regionally and globally. Efforts will be streamlined to ensure the cyber security of critical infrastructure in the region and to create an open, interoperable, secure, and reliable Internet.

Special focus is made on the contribution of the Baltic States to enhancing economic cooperation between the European Union and the United States. The statement reaffirms commitment to negotiate the world largest trade agreement – the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership which will strengthen the global trading system, promote competitiveness and growth, and create millions of new jobs. Lithuania has made the T-TIP a top priority for its rotating six-month EU Presidency because the second round of negotiations will be held this coming October.

With respect to defence, the statement underscores that the Baltic States are making significant contributions to NATO missions and are committed to maintaining and expanding Alliance capabilities for collective defense. Recognizing the value of practical cooperation, the Baltic countries and the United States will work together to find efficiencies and make the most of limited resources. It has been agreed to coordinate actions within NATO to identify and develop high-priority capabilities and training and exercise opportunities.

The joint statement emphasizes that in the last two decades the Baltic States have undertaken impressive democratic transitions, and they now demonstrate leadership in promoting democracy in the countries of the EU's Eastern Partnership. It accentuates support to the Lithuanian Presidency of the Council of the European Union which gives priority to strengthening relations with Eastern Partnership countries. The European integration of Ukraine and other Eastern neighbors is very important to international security.