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On 23 March 2026 in Riga, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže, met with the European Commission (EC) Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, Ekaterina Zaharieva, and discussed strengthening the European Union’s competitiveness and fostering innovation in preparation for the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2034). Baiba Braže and Ekaterina Zaharieva also participated in the opening of the TechChill event and in the Baltic Startup Policy Forum.
During the meeting, the officials emphasised the importance of ensuring that EU instruments – the upcoming European Competitiveness Fund and Horizon Europe – operate in a coordinated and effective manner and convert research results into innovations for practical application in the economy. Baiba Braže emphasised the need to continue implementing the EU’s simplification policy in practice in order to reduce the administrative burden on citizens and businesses and foster an environment favourable to innovation and growth. Furthermore, these efforts must be carried out at both the EU and national levels, as the goal is the same: to create an environment where startups can develop innovative solutions that strengthen our competitiveness.
Baiba Braže noted that targeted support for startups is essential for unlocking innovation potential, citing their science-intensive nature as the key criterion. The Minister particularly highlighted Latvia’s strengths in 5G/6G wireless network technologies, quantum technologies, space, and artificial intelligence.
Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva confirmed that the European Commission will continue to strengthen the innovation ecosystem by working closely with Member States, research institutions, and businesses to ensure sustainable growth and the EU’s competitiveness on a global scale.
The EC Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva is visiting Latvia for the first time since her appointment.
The Baltic Startup Policy Forum has brought together startup policy-makers and members of the startup ecosystem from all Baltic countries. The forum is taking place Riga Technical University and is organised by the tech event TechChill and the Latvian Startup Association Startin.LV. The forum will bring.