On Friday 16 September, Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis will travel to Bratislava to participate in an informal meeting of the EU heads of state or government. The aim of the meeting is to continue discussion on the future of the EU that was launched at the European Council meeting on June 28-29.
At the meeting, it is necessary to reassess the development of the EU project, taking into account the results of the UK referendum on the EU membership (Brexit) of 23 June 2016, when 48.1% backed remaining in the EU, while 51.9% backed withdrawal from the Union. After the referendum, it was established that it is necessary to take certain steps to restore public support, trust and sense of belonging to the EU.
The Bratislava summit will analyse the reasons why such a situation has developed and launch a debate to identify the themes that are important in the context of discussion of the EU's future. The discussion will be held between 27 member states, and the UK will not participate in it.
M.Kučinskis points out that the discussions about the future of the EU need to happen without breakdown of the member states by groups – it is necessary to find a common platform for further work that would satisfy the interests all parties. In addition, every new proposal that could change the current division of competences between the EU and member states should be assessed carefully before it is supported.
"A politically and economically united EU, the promotion of economic development and growth, improvement of the socioeconomic situation, and promotion of internal and external security are in line with Latvia's interests," said M.Kučinskis.
Information was prepared by:
Andrejs Vaivars
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Phone: +371 29228678
Email: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv