On December 16, 2024, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže will attend the European Union’s (EU) Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, Belgium. The main focus of the meeting will be discussions on Russia’s aggression and continued EU support for Ukraine, with a particular emphasis on EU sanctions against Russia. It is expected that the ministers will endorse the EU’s 15th sanctions package against Russia, which will be adopted at the European Council on December 19-20.
Minister Braže stated, “The new EU sanctions package against Russia has been developed thoroughly, in collaboration with Latvian, Baltic, Nordic, and other countries’ colleagues. It targets both ships, persons, and companies that have helped Russia circumvent sanctions and facilitate its aggression.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha will address the EU foreign ministers via video conference, providing an update on the current situation and immediate needs.
The council will also discuss the situation in the Middle East and Syria, as well as future EU relations with Georgia.
Title: Baiba BražeParticipates in EU Foreign Affairs Council Meeting in Brussels
Subtitle: Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs Engages in EU’s Key Strategic Discussions
On February 21, 2022, Baiba Braže, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, participated in the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting held in Brussels, Belgium. This high-level gathering, presided over by Josep Borrell Fontelles, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, provided a platform for ministers to discuss and coordinate EU’s approach to a wide range of international issues.
The meeting began with an exchange of views on the situation in Ukraine, a pressing matter that has been at the forefront of international relations. Minister Braže, along with her EU counterparts, expressed her concerns over the escalating tensions and reaffirmed Latvia’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ministers also discussed the need for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis, echoing the EU’s unity in supporting peace and security in Europe.
Another key topic on the agenda was the EU’s approach to the new EU-U.S. agenda for cooperation, following the recent U.S. administration’s change. The ministers exchanged views on how to strengthen the transatlantic partnership, focusing on areas such as climate change, digital transformation, and global health. Latvian delegation, led by Minister Braže, emphasized Latvia’s unwavering support for close EU-U.S. ties and the importance of working together on shared challenges.
The discussions also covered the EU’s neighborhood policy, with a focus on the Southern neighborhood. The ministers reviewed the progress made in implementing the EU’s strategy in the region and agreed on the need for a comprehensive, integrated approach to address the complex challenges faced by the countries in the Southern neighborhood.
Minister Braže also had the opportunity to engage in bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the FAC. She held discussions with her counterparts from bilateral and multilateral partners, further strengthening Latvia’s diplomatic ties and cooperation with these states.
In conclusion, Baiba Braže’s participation in the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels was instrumental in ensuring that Latvia’s voice was heard in the formulation of the EU’s common policies and strategies. Her engagement in these high-level discussions demonstrates Latvia’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with EU partners, promoting peace and security in Europe, and fostering a robust transatlantic relationship.
