Foreign Minister agrees with NGOs about continuing active dialogue

On 12 February, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins unveiled key objectives of Latvia's foreign policy this year to representatives of NGOs. Mr Riekstins was of the opinion that effective co-operation with NGOs is crucial in promoting the preparation of decisions of national significance.

During the meeting, numerous NGOs expressed satisfaction with the co-operation with the Foreign Ministry, at same time indicating several issues, which need to be specifically addressed in the future. 

Representatives of NGOs stated that special attention should be paid to involving NGOs more closely in the preparation of Latvia's position on various EU issues and ensuring the quality of this position. The discussion also touched upon the actions necessary in order to inform the community about the ratification of the EU Treaty of Lisbon and progress in its implementation, as well as about the benefits from the treaty. The Foreign Minister urged NGOs to take active part in the dialogue with the community on current EU topics.     

Considering issues of development co-operation policy, and in particular co-operation with Latvia's priority states in this field – Georgia, Ukraine, and Moldova, Mr Riekstins expressed determination to initiate a discussion with the government on the increase of funding. The Foreign Minister and representatives of NGOs were of the same opinion that steps need to be taken in order to explain the significance of support that is being provided to emerging democracies. As one of such activities, a visit by Ukrainian journalists to Latvia is planned to take place in spring, with the aim of raising awareness among the Ukrainian community and to encourage its support for the state's membership in NATO.    

The protection of Latvian economic interests in foreign states and international development prospects for Latvian companies were also discussed. Foreign Minister Riekstins invited representatives of NGOs to offer suggestions on how to optimise the operation of Latvia's economic representations abroad. Both parties agreed on the need to have feedback between the public and the non-governmental sector when solving migration policy issues as well.  

"Co-operation with NGOs is important to every institution," the Foreign Minister stated and expressed his belief that co-operation between the Foreign Ministry and NGOs will continue to become ever closer.

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