In a statement, they say: “During these two decades, we have become more confident in enjoying freedom, democracy and prosperity. We have experienced rapid economic growth, stability and security, while building a remarkable success story of European integration and transformation. Today, we actively take responsibility to contribute to the European in shaping the future.”
The presidents of the Baltic states emphasized that EU membership is of crucial importance in promoting economic growth. “Joining the European Union gave us easy access to a single market with 450 million consumers, opened up new opportunities for our companies, increased exports and attracted foreign investment,” the statement said, noting that as a result our countries’ economies grew to unprecedented levels.
The presidents of the Baltic states noted in a statement that today the combined gross domestic product (GDP) of the three Baltic states exceeds 160 billion euros – almost four times higher than 20 years ago. During the last 20 years, there have been significant and comprehensive changes in the standard of living of the population. Since 2004, foreign direct investments in the Baltic States have increased six times.
The statement also emphasizes that over the past 20 years, our countries have become strong and important promoters of European and transatlantic collective defense, especially considering our geographical proximity to Russia, which is the most direct threat to European and world security. “This is also confirmed by the fact that our defense expenses have significantly exceeded 2% of GDP. It is expected that they will increase in the future,” the statement said.
The presidents of the Baltic states also emphasized that the 20th anniversary of joining the EU is being celebrated at a time when Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine reminds us that peace in Europe should not be taken for granted. “NATO remains the basis of our collective defense and security. At the same time, the additional efforts of the European Union are indispensable for strengthening the security architecture in Europe. It is extremely important to strengthen the defense industry, readiness and capabilities of the European Union member states. We will continue to take care of peace and stability in the entire Euro-Atlantic area, ” they said.
Rinkevich, Nauseda and Karis emphasized that international support remains crucial for Ukraine to win.
“Today, Ukraine stands up for our democratic values. We stand firmly in support of Ukraine to protect the rules-based world order,” they said.
The statement reads: “In 1990-1991, the Baltic States were fighting for a democratic choice. Today, Ukrainians, Moldovans and Georgians are fighting for European values and the European family as their decisive choice. They have the same dream as we did then. Because of historical experience, we understand this. and feel. We strongly support those countries that share European values and desire to be together.”
The presidents of the Baltic states expressed that they will support the candidate countries on their European integration path to full membership in the European Union, and also called for intergovernmental conferences to be held with Ukraine and Moldova and to start accession negotiations in June 2024.
“The Baltic States are a great proof of how membership in the European Union promotes impressive modernization and economic development, which in turn guarantees a return on this investment. This is our reality, which we want to share,” explained the presidents of the Baltic States.
They emphasized that enlargement is a geopolitical necessity of the EU and a call of history.
“The enlargement of the European Union primarily means freedom, democracy and human dignity. It is the main geopolitical instrument of the European Union for ensuring peace and security on the European continent, for preventing the threat of authoritarian regimes. It strengthens Europe’s role in the world. A much larger single market offers new opportunities for our companies, and the enlargement success is in our strategic interests. A closer, broader and more capable European Union will eliminate any remaining ‘grey areas’ on the European map,” the statement said.
Also, the presidents of the Baltic states pointed out that the upcoming European Parliament elections on June 8 give millions of Europeans the opportunity to shape Europe’s future.
