Cigane:Future of EU depends on new generation

RIGA - Future of the EU will rest on the shoulders of the young people, said Saeima European affairs committee chairwoman Lolita Cigane (Unity) at an international conference dedicated to the 60th anniversary of the EU held in Riga.

The lawmaker underscored that the new generation has different values, for example, solidarity, welfare, climate changes.

Cigane also said that the EU is an excellent project for the small countries and Latvia should continue to cooperate with other EU member states.

"Russia is trying to convince its nationals and people in Ukraine and Georgia that Latvia does not wish to be in the EU and that the EU has brought only bad things for Latvia. We are obliged to work and demonstrate that we are a blossoming EU member," said Cigane.

Wolfgang Wessels, a professor of the Centre for Turkey and European Union Studies of the Cologne University, also said that the future will depend on the youth ad values important for them, still the common European values are clear therefore it is not necessary to build a new Europe.

Discussions and decision making in Europe takes time, but it is needed to allow member states share their experience and develop European identity.

He addressed participants of the conference and underscored that participation of the small member states, including Latvia, in the EU is very significant for the whole EU, and a good chance for the small countries to take part in policy making.