Latvian, Italian formins discuss EU future after British referendum

On June 15 Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation of Italy, Paolo Gentiloni, BNS learned from the Foreign Ministry.

The ministers exchanged views on preparations for the NATO Warsaw Summit, the security climate in the region, the European Union's future, and migration-related issues.

Rinkevics said he was convinced that not only the upcoming in/out referendum on Britain's membership of the EU, but also challenges faced by the EU in its southern and eastern neighbourhoods, including migration, will render the discussion on the EU's future even more intensive in its member states. 

Disregarding the outcome of the UK's referendum on European Union membership, it is clear already that the referendum will have a powerful effect on the further discussion on a common future for the EU. Whatever the result of the referendum in the UK, Latvia will actively and constructively contribute to the discussion on the EU's future, and work on the shaping of a common EU policy, Rinkevics emphasised.

In the context of migration, Rinkevics said that it is of vital importance to monitor migration flows along all routes to enable a rapid response should it be necessary. Latvia highly appreciates Italy's efforts in dealing with the migration crisis, and supports Italy by taking part in the Frontex operations, contributing to the European Asylum Support Office, and relocation of asylum seekers. The Latvian foreign minister noted that it was essential to implement the agreement between the EU and Turkey and that Latvia considers it to be a step forward in the resolution of the migration crisis. A voluntary approach is a vital principle for Latvia concerning the relocation of asylum seekers, Rinkevics emphasised, and therefore, Latvia cannot accept the mandatory distribution scheme proposed.

Rinkevics underscored the interests of Latvia and the EU in seeing to it that the  Russian Federation does not contemplate any further violations of international law that pose a threat to security and stability in Europe. Rinkevics recognised what has been achieved so far as the result of the international coalition's actions against ISIL/Da'esh in Syria, Iraq, and also Libya. Latvia sees the need for a greater coordination of efforts between the EU and NATO, Rinkevics noted, and added that Latvia supports NATO's decision to bolster the efforts of the Global Coalition, enhance presence in the Mediterranean, and strengthen co-operation with partner countries.

The minister thanked Italy for its support in the process of Latvia's accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and looked forward to co-operating within the framework of the organisation.

Rinkevics also expressed hope and interest that the president of Italy, Sergio Matarella, may come visit Latvia.