On Thursday 25 January, Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis participated in high-level discussions on the future of Europe and global challenges at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Several dozen world leaders, international organizations and business corporations participated in the discussions.
As regards the future of Europe, M. Kučinskis points out that there are issues that are complicated and divide us, thus affecting our sense of belonging to the EU. It is essential that even the most complex issues are debated, and it is equally important for the countries to listen to each other and be open to each other’s views, even if they are different.
M. Kučinskis points out that this time should be used to regain the confidence in Europe of that part of society, which still feels the consequences of the economic and financial crisis. He also stresses that this is a time when we must continue to strengthen the resilience of our policies against the possible future challenges. “Highly developed and educated labour force, and thus people, will play an increasing role in our future development and competitiveness. Education quality, lifelong learning, research and innovation - the role of these components will be decisive in a competitive economy, “said M. Kučinskis.
The discussion devoted to the global challenges highlighted the need to focus more on the prevention of conflicts. It is much more expensive to restore post-conflict peace in both strict sense and ruined lives of people. Long-lasting crises and conflicts are a heavy burden on national and international resources and the implementation of human rights. At present, more than 244 million people in the world live outside their home country, including over 65 million who are forced to migrate due to war, persecution or natural disasters.
Prime Minister M. Kučinskis is participating in the World Economic Forum in Davos from 24 -26 January.
Andrejs Vaivars
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Mob.: 29228678
E-mail: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv