The security, prosperity, and sustainability of the Baltic States depends on the cohesion and increasingly close cooperation between Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. “Transport connectivity is one of the pillars of regional unity, economic development, and security, and it must be enhanced,” emphasised Jānis Vucāns, President of the Baltic Assembly, during his address at the 44th Session of the Baltic Assembly on Friday, 14 November. During the Session, special attention was given to Baltic cooperation in defence, economy, education, culture, and science.
Jānis Vucāns noted that in 2025, the Baltic Assembly worked mainly on strengthening parliamentary diplomacy, which enables turning joint vision into tangible results. “Parliamentary diplomacy is our bridge between ideas and action. Active dialogue between law-makers and executive powers is crucial to ensure that our common goals develop into real solutions,” said the President of the Baltic Assembly.
Regarding defence, Vucāns highlighted that Baltic security depends on the ability to operate within a unified defence space. A coordinated approach to military operations, developing industry, and enhancing deterrence boosts the capabilities of the Baltic States to react to threats and protect the region.
The President of the Baltic Assembly noted that the Baltic States are on the European frontline, protecting the security of the external border of the European Union and NATO. “At a time when Europe is facing various challenges, including Russia’s brutal war on Ukraine, our unity and solidarity are now more important than ever before,” highlighted Vucāns.
Jānis Vucāns noted that in 2025, the Baltic States have taken a historic step towards enhancing their energy security by synchronising with the Continental Europe Synchronous Area. “This a significant demonstration of security and independence. The next step is developing a joint energy strategy to increase our joint efforts in energy security and sustainability,” said the President of the Baltic Assembly.
The BA agenda also focused on the development of science and innovation, including the establishment of a joint Baltic Science Fund to provide stable research funding. “Scientific excellence is the cornerstone for regional growth,” said Vucāns, while commending the progress in the automatic recognition of higher education qualifications and the development of the Baltic communication strategy.
MP Vucāns also highlighted recent accomplishments in healthcare collaboration, including work on joint medical procurements, build-up of reserves, and the initiative of an Advanced Particle Therapy Centre in the Baltic region.
Latvia is currently the presiding country of the Baltic Assembly, and parliamentarians from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia have gathered in Riga to discuss the topicalities of Baltic cooperation and review the success of the Latvian presidency. Estonia will take over the presidency of the Baltic Assembly and the Baltic Council of Ministers in 2026.
Saeima Press Service