Riga, 20 June 2023 – Today, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Edgars Rinkēvičs, took the stage at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) to discuss the priorities of the Latvian Presidency and shed light on the current political issues tackled by the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers.
During a lively questions and answers session with PACE parliamentarians, Minister Rinkēvičs highlighted the core focus areas of the Latvian Presidency. These include bolstering democracy and the rule of law, promoting freedom of expression, journalists’ safety, and the digital agenda of the Council of Europe. Additionally, he stressed the importance of advancing reforms within the Council of Europe, particularly by implementing the decisions made at the Reykjavik Summit.
Undoubtedly, the most pressing concern addressed by Minister Rinkēvičs was Russia’s ongoing war of aggression in Ukraine and the need for Russia to be held accountable. In his address, he stated, “Ukraine must receive all the support it needs. The Member States of the Council of Europe have reaffirmed their unwavering support to the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We call on the Russian Federation to comply with its international obligations and withdraw its forces from Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova. Russia must assume full legal and financial responsibility for its aggression and violations of international law.”
In addition to his appearance before PACE, Minister Rinkēvičs engaged in several significant meetings. These included discussions with Martinus Josephus Maria (Tiny) Kox, the President of PACE, Maria Pejčinović Burić, the Secretary-General of the Council of Europe, and Leendert Leen Verbeek, the President of the Council of Europe Congress of Local and Regional Authorities. During these interactions, the Foreign Minister reiterated Latvia’s commitment to the implementation of decisions made at the Reykjavik Summit, with specific emphasis on the establishment of a Register of Damage to document the losses and damages caused by Russia in Ukraine.
In his role as the Chair of the Committee of Ministers, Minister Rinkēvičs met with Glauk Konjufca, the Speaker of the Parliament of Kosovo, highlighting the importance of dialogue and cooperation between the Council of Europe and Kosovo.
On a more cultural note, Minister Rinkēvičs participated in the unveiling of a captivating photography exhibition showcasing Latvian folk costumes. The event featured a stirring performance by the Latvian diaspora choir, “Staro,” adding a touch of cultural vibrancy to the political discussions.
