President Levits thanked Finland for its presidency in the second half of 2019 and also wished Germany successful presidency in the second half of 2020 and good luck in continuing existing activities.
President of Latvia pointed out that all four priorities of Croatian presidency, namely growth and competitiveness, connectivity and security of Europe, are important for Latvia. Egils Levits stressed the importance of the European digital single market and the need to develop common European anti-money laundering guidelines. Latvia is ready to contribute its positive experience in combating money laundering acquired in recent years.
President Levits highlighted the significance of the so-called Three Seas Initiative and Rail Baltica in achieving better connectivity between different regions of Europe and transport and logistics sector players.
President also spoke about the need to strengthen EU’s global role and importance of multilateralism. He reiterated that Latvia believes the transatlantic bond is the cornerstone of Europe’s security.
Egils Levits praised Croatia for prioritising civic engagement across Europe and participation of EU citizens in shaping of future Europe. He also added that ‘Latvia is one of the leading countries in terms of direct democracy, including legislation. Latvia’s experience may also be useful to other EU member states’.
President Levits also touched upon Brexit and underlined that ‘although the UK is leaving the EU, it will still be a part of Europe, and we will all benefit from good and mutually beneficial relationship with the UK’. President and ambassadors also talked about the EU’s Eastern Partnership.
