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On 22 and 23 October 2026, Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dace Melbārde represented Latvia at an informal meeting of European Union ministers responsible for trade in Dublin, Ireland. The ministers discussed the EU’s trade relations with China and the US, as well as progress and future priorities in free trade agreement negotiations with partner countries.
During discussions on EU–China economic relations, Dace Melbārde welcomed the launch of the EU–China dialogue, which aims to reduce trade imbalances. She emphasised the need for the European Commission to maintain a firm and resolute stance in negotiations with China. Latvia supports the targeted and appropriate use of trade defence instruments to ensure fair competition in the European market, while maintaining close cooperation with EU partners and allies.
Ministers also discussed the EU’s free trade agreement negotiations with the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia, as well as progress towards signing agreements with India, Indonesia and Australia. Dace Melbārde stressed that Latvia is interested in expanding the EU’s network of trade agreements, as this creates new opportunities for Latvian businesses and facilitates access to foreign markets; she also expressed support for pragmatic solutions to streamline the process of signing and concluding agreements.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the development of EU–US trade relations was discussed, with particular focus on the implementation of the EU–US trade agreement reached in 2025. Dace Melbārde pointed out that constructive dialogue between the two sides has contributed to greater stability and predictability for businesses in both Europe and the US. Latvia supports the continued close transatlantic cooperation, both in addressing traditional trade issues and in strengthening cooperation in strategically important sectors, including energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, semiconductor and telecommunications technologies, as well as supply chain security.