Baltic States – CIS, Direct Speech, Energy, EU – Baltic States, Latvia, Lithuania, Nuclear power plant

''The Lithuanian referendum tells us that we must begin thinking about alternatives. We must solve this matter, because it is not just a matter of energy, but also national security,'' the politician said, adding that he would not be surprised if the recent referendum in Lithuania will slow down the nuclear power plant project.

At the same time, Karins pointed out that Russian gas giant Gazprom has a huge lobby in Latvia, thus energy decisions in Latvia will be tough to push through. ''In Latvia, similar to Lithuania, it is complicated to make long-term energy decision. We see that ''Gazprom's'' lobby is very strong in Latvia,'' the European parliament member said.

''This is a lobby which will do everything it can to retain its monopoly position in Latvia, as well its huge influence and profits. We must work to counter this,'' Karins added.

As reported, 62.7% of voters cast "No" in a non-binding referendum on the Visaginas Nuclear Power Plant project in Lithuania, while almost 34% backed the plan. Despite placing no legal obligation on the government, the result throws new doubt on an already-sluggish project.