Prime Minister in Riga: regional coordination and EU’s unified response are key in countering hybrid threats

Lithuania and Latvia are allies, reliable partners, and like-minded nations united by shared values and interests. Both countries must continue strengthening cooperation in pursuit of a secure and prosperous Baltic region. This message was emphasized during the working visit to Riga on Thursday by Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė in her meetings with Latvia's top officials.

The Prime Minister met with Latvian counterpart Evika Siliņa, President Edgars Rinkēvičs, and Speaker of the Saeima Daiga Mieriņa. Issues of mutual relevance were also discussed in a joint meeting of the two Prime Ministers with the Lithuanian and Latvian Chambers of Commerce.

"Our commitment to defence and security is not just declarative - we demonstrate it through action. Both our countries are among NATO's leaders in defence spending, and we are continuing to increase our contributions. But just as important is how we respond to hybrid provocations: how well we coordinate through regional formats like the Nordic-Baltic Eight, how effectively we use EU instruments, and how clearly we show that such behaviour will not be tolerated. I welcome the unity between Lithuania and Latvia on these issues, and I am confident we can continue strengthening our cooperation," said Prime Minister Ruginienė.

The parties discussed regional security, including recent violations of NATO airspace, and hybrid threats such as the disruption of civil aviation in Lithuania using smuggling balloons - with Belarus bearing responsibility for these provocations.

The Prime Ministers agreed that national agencies and institutions of both countries must enhance cooperation in responding to such threats. The EU's external borders are our shared borders, noted Prime Minister Ruginienė.

The protection of critical infrastructure and the prevention of weaponised migration were also among the items on the agenda.

Prime Minister Ruginienė stated that Russia, which continues its brutal war against Ukraine and shows no interest in peace, and its ally Belarus, must face stricter sanctions and further international isolation.

At the same time, comprehensive support for Ukraine remains crucial in pursuit of a lasting and just peace in Europe. "We must accelerate Ukraine's integration into the EU and support its swift accession as a full member. This is an additional security guarantee both for Ukraine and for Europe as a whole," said Ruginienė.

The meetings with Latvian leaders also discussed progress on Rail Baltica - a strategic project vital for military mobility and regional economic development. All partner countries must work to accelerate implementation in order to secure EU funding, the Prime Minister emphasized.

The visit looked into the bilateral economic cooperation. The two Prime Ministers exchanged views with business representatives from both countries on ways to enhance the Baltic region's competitiveness, support economic growth, and strengthen the defence sector, which is becoming increasingly important.

"Without security, prosperity is fragile - both our countries understand this well. We must continue working together to make the Baltic region more attractive for global investment in the defence industry and to develop advanced defence technologies," said Prime Minister Ruginienė.

Last updated: 30-10-2025

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