History always brings Baltic states and Poland together - Smiltens

RIGA - Each of our countries tries to go its own way, but the twists and turns of history always bring us together - we are united by common historical experience, common victories and common tragedies, Saeima Speaker Edvards Smiltens (United List) said in Warsaw. 

As LETA was told at the Saeima press office, the speakers of the Baltic and Polish parliaments gathered in the Polish capital city to strengthen regional cooperation at a time when Europe's security system is facing unprecedented challenges. 

Smiltens, Estonian parliament Speaker Juri Ratas, Lithuanian parliament speaker Viktorija Cmilyte-Nielsen and Elzbieta Witek, the Marshal of Poland's Sejm, adopted a statement during their meeting in Warsaw outlining perspectives for further cooperation. The speakers' talks focused on support to Ukraine, bolstering common defense and energy security.

Smiltens noted that there are many topics on which the four countries have concurring positions. "We believe that the crimes Russia has committed in Ukraine must no go unpunished. We will work together to persuade other countries to organize an international tribunal for the investigation of these crimes," Smiltens said. 

"Our countries unequivocally see Ukraine's future in the European Union and NATO. The Ukrainian army is currently among the strongest in Europe, it has been toughened in battles against the bloody aggressor. Ukraine's membership in the alliance will strengthen the  security of the Baltics and whole NATO. Together we will approach our colleagues in Europe and overseas to make sure this position is adopted by as many allies as possible," Smiltens said. 

"It is also essential for our security to ensure that Finland and Sweden join NATO as soon as possible. We are better heard in the world if we speak in one voice," Smiltens stressed. 

The Saeima speaker also stressed the importance of energy security. In this context, it is essential to complete the construction of a power connection between Poland and Lithuania, which would enable Latvia to desynchronize from the BREL network connecting Russia, Belarus and the Baltic states.