Romania and Latvia discuss cooperation on security, cyber security and support for Ukraine

RIGA - Latvia and Romania discussed cooperation in the areas of security, cyber security and support for Ukraine, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braze (New Unity) and Romanian Foreign Minister Oana-Silvia Toiu emphasized to members of the press on Thursday following a meeting in Riga.

Braze noted that relations between the two countries have historically been close and welcomed Romania’s decision to resume embassy operations in Latvia. The ministers discussed both political dialogue and economic cooperation, including trade development, direct flights, and opportunities for cooperation in the defense industry.

She emphasized that Latvia and Romania face similar security challenges on the eastern border of NATO and the European Union (EU). The talks covered cooperation within NATO, strengthening air defense capabilities, the development of unmanned systems, and the implementation of a deterrence policy on the Alliance’s eastern flank.

Braze also thanked Romania for its participation in the defense of Baltic airspace and expressed hope for continued cooperation between the two countries in this area.

Toiu, for her part, noted that the opening of the Romanian Embassy in Riga underscores the strength of the partnership and friendship between the two countries. By the end of the year, the embassy plans to expand its staff to also provide consular services.

The Romanian foreign minister emphasized that security issues had been one of the central topics of discussion. She pointed to the need to strengthen resilience against hybrid threats, cyber threats, and disinformation campaigns.

As one example of successful cooperation, Toiu cited the two countries’ collaboration in the field of cybersecurity. Following a cyberattack on one of Romania’s state agencies, in cooperation with Latvian partners, it was determined that the same attack methods had been used as in previously identified incidents in Latvia, which allowed security services to respond more quickly and improve their preparedness for similar threats in the future.

The ministers also discussed the EU multiannual budget negotiations, emphasizing the need to ensure sufficient funding for the protection of external borders, strengthening security, and promoting competitiveness.

Both officials reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine and expressed their readiness to continue coordinated efforts within international organizations. Special attention during the talks was given to the situation in the Black Sea and the threats posed by Russia to shipping and Ukraine’s agricultural exports.

Toiu emphasized that the safety of maritime traffic in the Black Sea is crucial not only for the countries of the region but also for global food security, as any disruptions affect food availability and prices in other regions of the world.

As reported, Romania’s foreign minister is on a working visit to Latvia on Thursday and Friday. During the visit, she will visit the NATO Strategic Communications Center of Excellence and the National Library of Latvia, and, together with Braze, will attend the ceremonial opening of the Romanian Embassy in Latvia.