BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 19. Senior officials and
experts from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Latvia and
Lithuania gathered in Liepāja today for their annual informal
seminar, Trend reports.

The event brought together top-level representatives from both
nations to deepen strategic collaboration and discuss pressing
regional and global issues.

The seminar was officially opened by Ivars Lasis, Political
Director of the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In his remarks, Lasis highlighted the traditionally close and
friendly ties between the two neighboring countries and reaffirmed
their commitment to joint action across regional and international
platforms, including the European Union (EU), NATO, and other
multilateral formats.

He emphasized the significance of unity and cooperation amid
today’s challenging geopolitical climate.

Participants commended the robust cooperation within the
Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) framework, noting its value in bolstering
the region’s security and resilience.

The discussion also focused on exploring new areas for NB8
collaboration and mutual support.

In-depth conversations were held on current developments within
the EU, particularly concerning preparations for the upcoming
Lithuanian and Latvian presidencies of the EU Council in 2027 and
2028.

Officials discussed the countries’ strategic priorities and
shared perspectives on shaping the EU’s long-term budget
framework.

Transatlantic relations featured prominently in the talks, with
participants underscoring their critical role in ensuring the
defense and security of the Euro-Atlantic region.

Officials expressed a united commitment to reinforcing NATO,
increasing defense investments, enhancing military capabilities,
and deepening NATO-EU cooperation.

The meeting also covered the Baltic States’ shared interests
within the United Nations, especially in light of Latvia’s upcoming
term on the UN Security Council.

Lithuanian officials offered insights based on their prior
Council experience in 2014–2015.

To conclude the event, both delegations visited the Latvian
National Armed Forces Naval Training Center and the Baltic States
Divers School.

Diplomats had the opportunity to learn about ongoing regional
defense training efforts and collaborations with international
partners.

Now in its ninth year, the annual seminar is held alternately by
the Latvian and Lithuanian Ministries of Foreign Affairs.

The event serves as a platform to foster high-level dialogue,
align foreign policy priorities, and strengthen joint efforts to
promote the countries’ shared values and strategic goals in
international institutions.