Egils Levits, the President of the Republic of Latvia

The President of Latvia, Egils Levits, sees the Three Seas Initiative as an instrument that continues the crucial work of reducing disparities within the EU and facilitating cohesion. We are grateful to Latvia for the effort they have put into the initiative.

Statement by H.E. Mr Egils Levits, President of the Republic of Latvia “On the Three Seas Initiative”

The Three Seas Initiative was launched in 2016 to link countries along the Baltic, Adriatic and Black Sea in closer cooperation on economic matters. Since then, the Initiative has gained increasing profile as a platform for common projects in energy, transport and communications infrastructure.

In October the leaders of the twelve participating countries will meet again on the Baltic coast, in Tallinn. I look forward to the summit and I commend Estonia for the active and productive work in making the preparations, especially in these difficult global circumstances. The Summit will be accompanied by a Business Forum, and together these events demonstrate the strong commitment of the countries towards real results. The Initiative is underpinned by an Investment Fund, which Latvia has joined.

The outcome of this Initiative will be a strong backbone for our economies through connectivity projects that boost the Transatlantic link and cooperation between EU member states.

This is important, because throughout the 20th and first decades of the 21st century, political changes in Central and Eastern Europe have significantly outpaced infrastructure development. The Three Seas Initiative is an instrument that continues the crucial work of reducing disparities within the EU and facilitating cohesion, so that our region becomes an even better place to live.

On 4 May, Latvia marked thirty years since its restoration of independence and return to the democratic and independent family of European nations. The past three decades have been full of challenges, achievements and lessons learned. Moreover, the recent effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 has been one of the most complicated and unexpected struggles in our experience. Nevertheless, we have to remember that behind every solved problem, there are many visible and invisible steps based on patience and resilience.

Our region is on the crossroads of geopolitical interests. There is a permanent need for perceptiveness in identifying solutions to new challenges and for making good use of opportunities. During times that demand courage and strategic vision, the Three Seas Initiative Summit and Business Forum represent an important step forward. See you in Tallinn in October!

Video statement by H.E. Mr Egils Levits, President of the Republic of Latvia “On the Three Seas Initiative”