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On 3 and 4 June 2026 in Paris, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Artjoms Uršuļskis, participated in the Ministerial Council Meeting of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Ministers discussed the importance of industrial strategy and competitive markets in promoting sustainable prosperity, emphasising the role of rules-based trade, investment, and innovation.
Discussing the OECD's strategic directions, Artjoms Uršuļskis highlighted the organisation's global role in continuing to disseminate evidence-based recommendations. The Parliamentary Secretary expressed support for Ukraine’s membership in the OECD and emphasised that Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine threatens European and global stability, food security and energy security, and undermines the fundamental principles of international law.
During the session on fiscal sustainability and industrial policy, Artjoms Uršuļskis noted that since 2022, our security environment has required decisive and sustainable action, prioritising defence. The Parliamentary Secretary emphasised the need to ensure that increased defence spending generates broader economic benefits by supporting national industrial capacity and fostering innovation.
During the session on open markets and free and fair trade, Artjoms Uršuļskis emphasised that the reduction of trade barriers and open markets are the foundation of innovation, productivity and resilient supply chains. The OECD has repeatedly noted that openness and well-designed national policies contribute to long-term results.
The Ministerial Council Meeting is the OECD’s annual high-level forum, attended by ministers and other high-level representatives from OECD member countries and international partners. In 2026, Finland chaired the Ministerial Council Meeting.
During the visit, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also met with Emmanuel Puisais-Jauvin, France’s Secretary General for European Affairs. During the meeting, Artjoms Uršuļskis praised the strong bilateral relations and active political dialogue, France’s contribution to strengthening security on NATO’s eastern flank, and its support for the training of French language teachers. Discussing EU issues, both sides agreed that the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework should focus on strengthening European security, defence, and economic development, taking into account the impact of Russia’s war against Ukraine on the EU’s eastern border countries, as well as ensuring fair competition for farmers.
Background information
The OECD is a unique forum and a globally recognised centre of expertise that provides member countries with recommendations on how to effectively address issues of concern to them across various sectors. The organisation's mission is to develop and promote reforms that improve people's living standards and socio-economic conditions, as well as economic competitiveness. To achieve this goal, the OECD works with national governments and policymakers to develop international guidelines and standards aimed at promoting sustainable development and finding solutions to pressing global challenges.