Baltic states could adapt co-operation between embassies from Benelux states [03 Oct 2007]

On 2-3 October this year, at the initiative of Latvian Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks, the meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Baltic and Benelux states (3+3) took place at Jurmala, during which the Baltic states Foreign Ministers commended the co-operation between the embassies of the Benelux states, and expressed interest in adapting this experience in co-operation between the foreign representations of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. That would facilitate co-operation planning with those countries in which Latvia does not have diplomatic representations.

During their meeting, the Baltic and Benelux ministers emphasised the need to hold such meetings regularly, in order to discuss topical EU issues, regional co-operation and other international matters. The ministers all acknowledged that the exchange of information is vital, for, although the Benelux states are small, and have limited resources, they nevertheless have great influence in the European Union and are able to develop new initiatives of a high standard.

The Ministers acknowledged that the European Neighbourhood Policy is a good instrument for creating stability around the European Union, and it must continue to be developed and strengthened. During their meeting, the Ministers discussed a wide range of issues including both political and economic co-operation, and co-operation on energy policy. The Ministers also exchanged views on progress on the new Draft Reform Treaty, and expressed their conviction that all EU member states will be able to agree on it.

Participating in the meeting were Latvian Foreign Minister Artis Pabriks, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Dr. Petras Vaitiekunas, Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Paet, the Belgian State Secretary for Administrative Simplicifation, attached to the Prime Minister Vincent Van Quickenborne, Luxembourg's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Jean Asselborn, and Dutch Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Verhagen.

This was the first 3+3 meeting at the Foreign Minister level, and continues to develop the good co-operation between the Baltic and Benelux states at the regional and EU levels.

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