Riga, Latvia – In a meeting held on February 20, 2026, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže engaged in discussions with representatives from Latvian municipalities, the Latvian Association of Large Cities and the Latvian Union of Municipalities. The focus of the talks centered on regional development, economic cooperation, the involvement of municipalities in international collaboration and development projects, support instruments for entrepreneurs offered by the Foreign Ministry, and, crucially, the upcoming EU multiannual budget, the attraction of EU funds, and the promotion of foreign trade. This dialogue underscores Latvia’s proactive approach to shaping its economic future within the framework of European Union policies.
Minister Braže likewise expressed gratitude to the municipalities for their ongoing collaboration and unwavering support for Ukraine, a critical partner in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges. This acknowledgment highlights the importance of local-level engagement in broader foreign policy objectives. The meeting took place against a backdrop of increasing global instability, making strategic planning and resource allocation all the more vital for Latvia’s security and prosperity. The discussions reflect a concerted effort to align national priorities with the evolving landscape of the European Union’s budgetary and strategic goals.
The discussions also addressed the critical issue of security, with Braže emphasizing the significance of the allied presence in Latvia and the Baltic region as a key element of deterrence and defense for Latvia, Europe, and NATO as a whole. She highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the presence of allied land, air, and naval forces. The recent opening of the Sēlija polygon, a military training area, was cited as a concrete example of these efforts to bolster regional security infrastructure. This commitment to strengthening defense capabilities is a direct response to the changing security environment in Eastern Europe and a demonstration of Latvia’s dedication to collective security within the NATO alliance.
Latvia Prioritizes Security and Economic Growth in EU Budget Negotiations
The upcoming EU multiannual budget (2028-2034) is a central focus for Latvia, with the country having already established its national position on January 15th of this year, as prepared by the Foreign Ministry in close collaboration with other sectoral ministries and non-governmental sector partners. Latvia’s four national priorities for the EU budget negotiations are: security and defense, cohesion (regional development and investment), the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and Rail Baltica. These priorities reflect a strategic assessment of Latvia’s needs and opportunities within the broader EU context.
The current period sees Latvia receiving approximately 10 billion euros from the EU, representing roughly 10-15% of the national budget and 40-50% of total public investment. These funds are primarily allocated to direct payments to farmers and support for the Common Agricultural Policy, regional development and infrastructure (through the Cohesion Fund), education, research and innovation, the digital and green transition, Rail Baltica, and economic recovery following the COVID-19 crisis (through the EU Recovery Fund). The scale of EU funding underscores its importance to Latvia’s economic development and its ability to address key societal challenges.
Negotiations on the next EU multiannual budget are expected to be particularly challenging, taking place in a significantly different geopolitical situation than previous cycles. EU member states have approximately 18 months to reach a consensus, with the final decision requiring unanimous approval from all member states and the European Parliament. Once approved, the seven-year budget’s scope and structure are not substantially altered, making the initial negotiations all the more critical. The complexity of the process and the high stakes involved necessitate a well-prepared and coordinated approach from Latvia.
Strengthening Economic Ties and Supporting Ukrainian Resilience
Beyond the EU budget, the meeting also addressed the importance of strengthening economic ties and supporting Ukrainian resilience. Minister Braže acknowledged the significant contributions made by Latvian municipalities in providing assistance to Ukraine, recognizing their dedication to supporting a key partner in need. This support extends beyond humanitarian aid to include political and economic assistance, demonstrating Latvia’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Foreign Ministry representatives detailed the various support mechanisms available to municipalities for addressing current issues, particularly focusing on the diplomatic service’s collaboration with the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) to support Latvian entrepreneurs. This collaborative approach aims to leverage the expertise of both organizations to promote Latvian businesses and attract foreign investment. The Ministry emphasized the close link between economic security and national security, arguing that a stable economic environment is essential for overall stability and prosperity.
The discussions also highlighted new opportunities in the defense industry, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of investing in national security capabilities. The Ministry intends to actively work on strengthening economic activity in priority markets while opening doors for new cooperation opportunities in more distant regions. This strategic approach to economic development aims to diversify Latvia’s trade relationships and reduce its reliance on any single market.
Travel Advisories and Diaspora Engagement
A key element of the Foreign Ministry’s briefing to the municipalities concerned travel safety. Officials reiterated the recommendation against travel to Russia and Belarus, citing the risks to travelers and the limited capacity of the Latvian diplomatic service to provide assistance to citizens encountering problems in those countries. This travel advisory reflects the deteriorating security situation in the region and the potential for arbitrary detention or harassment of foreign nationals.
The Ministry also emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with the Latvian diaspora, acknowledging the support provided by municipalities to returning citizens. Efforts are underway to further refine this support system and ensure that it effectively addresses the needs of returning Latvians. The diaspora represents a valuable resource for Latvia, providing expertise, investment, and cultural connections that contribute to the country’s overall development.
Looking Ahead: Latvia’s 2028 EU Presidency
Looking ahead, Latvia is preparing for its presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2028. This will provide Latvia with a significant opportunity to shape the EU agenda and advance its national priorities. The Ministry briefed municipalities on the preparations for the presidency, emphasizing the importance of coordinated action and effective communication. The presidency will require a substantial investment of resources and a high level of diplomatic skill to navigate the complex challenges facing the EU.
The Foreign Ministry also highlighted the “Travel Safely” campaign and initiatives related to diaspora engagement and remigration. These campaigns aim to promote safe travel practices and encourage Latvians living abroad to return to their homeland, contributing their skills and experience to the country’s development. These initiatives reflect a broader effort to strengthen Latvia’s national identity and build a more resilient and prosperous society.
The meeting between Foreign Minister Braže and the representatives of Latvian municipalities underscores the importance of close collaboration between national and local authorities in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing Latvia. By working together, Latvia can effectively navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and secure its future prosperity. The emphasis on security, economic growth, and diaspora engagement reflects a comprehensive approach to national development that prioritizes both national interests and European integration.
The next key milestone to watch will be the European Commission’s detailed proposals for the 2028-2034 EU budget, expected in the coming months. These proposals will provide a clearer picture of the financial resources available to Latvia and the priorities that will shape the EU’s agenda for the next seven years. Stay informed and engaged in the conversation about Latvia’s future within the European Union. Share your thoughts and perspectives in the comments below.