Latvia will support any decision enabling Europe to grow stronger militarily - PM Silina

RIGA - Latvia will support any decision that will enable Europe to grow stronger militarily, Prime Minister Evika Silina (New Unity) told the media today before the European Council meeting.

The prime minister noted that today's European Council meeting will focus on Ukraine and how to contain Russia. This includes the question about including manganese ore and alumina in sanctions. Another important issue is strengthening Europe and developing the military industry.

Silina said that one way of strengthening Europe's military defense could be through the European Investment Bank, i.e. the bank could provide financing not only for the manufacture of dual-use goods, but also for a wider range of goods. Another option would be to create a special fund for military financing. Latvia will support either decision.

"We cannot rely only on transatlantic partners. We also need to strengthen Europe ourselves by seeking new funding for it," said Silina.

The Baltic countries will also ask the European Council for a more concrete timetable for resuming EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. Clarity is needed for both Europe and Ukraine, the prime minister said. "We are talking about June. Hopefully, we will be able to achieve such concreteness also in the conclusions," Silina said.

LETA has already reported that Silina (New Unity) will participate in the European Council meeting today and tomorrow, Silina told the media on Tuesday after the government meeting.