Baltic States – CIS, EU – Baltic States, Investments, Latvia, Legislation

Donald Tusk and Laimdota Straujuma. Riga, 9.01.2015. Photo: flickr.com

He said that Europe is encountering various internal and external problems at the moment, which the Latvian presidency will have to tackle during the next six months. One of the most current matters is security, especially after this week's terrorist attacks in Paris. ''Such tragic incidents show our vulnerability, as well as how vulnerable the modern world actually is. The EU cannot do everything, but we can strengthen of defensive capabilities and create additional security guarantees,'' Tusk said.

At the same time, the events in Ukraine remain a very important matter as well. ''We must how Europe's reaction will be. Territorial integrity and sovereignty are principles that cannot be violated,'' he emphasized.

Speaking about sanctions against Russia, the European Council president emphasized that the EU is not pushing a policy which is against Russia, but one that is aimed at coexisting with one another. He also admitted that Latvia is paying a higher price than many other EU countries in regard to this policy, but that there is no other choice at the moment.

Tusk also said that Latvia will also have to focus on solving the EU economic crisis during its presidency period, as well as renew growth and attract investments. The former Polish PM also admitted that Latvia will serve as an excellent example on how to recover from a crisis and make brave decisions on structural reforms, so to revive economic stability.

''I am confident that the Latvian Presidency headed by Laimdota Straujuma will be active, effective and productive,'' Tusk said.

Meanwhile, Straujuma said that the two sides discussed the agenda of the upcoming two European Council meetings, as well as matters to be discussed during the informal meetings of EU leaders.

As reported, Tusk arrived yesterday on a two-day visit to Latvia in order to attend the opening ceremony for Latvia's Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

During the visit, Tusk will also meet with Latvian President Andris Berzins and Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics (Unity).