Baltic States – CIS, EU – Baltic States, Financial Services, Latvia, Legislation

The ministers for development cooperation had an initial discussion on the new instruments for financing the EU’s external action and took stock of the implementation of the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa to address the root causes of migration, LETA was informed by the Foreign Ministry.

Representatives from EU Member States were presented with a package of proposals for the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework for 2021-2027 published on May 2 and, in its context, with the EU’s foreign aid budget.

Kalnina-Lukasevica underscored in a discussion: “Statistics shows very clearly that we need to find better ways and modalities to include all the Member States, also the small ones, in the implementation of our EU external financial instruments. It also concerns other small scale partners such as the private sector and civil society organizations.”

Kalnina-Lukasevica reiterated that it was of utmost importance to continue after 2020 with the European Neighborhood Policy underpinned by a sufficient and geographically balanced funding through a separate European Neighborhood Instrument. On the one hand, this is the question of security and welfare in our immediate neighborhood; on the other, it sends a political signal to our neighboring partners of the EU’s special attitude.

Through its European Neighborhood Instrument, the EU works with its Eastern and Southern neighbors to support the process of political, economic and social reforms in 16 countries. The European Neighborhood policy aims at fostering welfare, stability, security, market economy and sustainable growth. The EU’s cooperation with its Eastern neighbors, including Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia, is of special importance for Latvia, the ministry points out.

Referring to the EU Trust Fund for Africa, the EU High Representative informed the Council of positive results achieved with stemming the irregular migratory flows via the Central Mediterranean route and addressing the root causes on the ground in African countries.

Kalnina-Lukasevica recognized the short-term results achieved in the fight against illegal migration, migrant smuggling and trafficking in persons. At the same time, she noted in regard to further activities that an increased effectiveness and long-term impact were expected in tackling the causes of migration.