On May 9, 2024, we celebrate Europe Day. In addition, throughout the year 2024, we celebrate the 20th anniversary since the expansion of the largest economic and political union – the European Union – on May 1, 2004, when Latvia also became a member state.
We are part of Europe with diverse opportunities to shape our future and our common future. We are part of the European family whose foundation is democracy.
Baiba Braže, Minister of Foreign Affairs: “Twenty years ago, ten countries, including us, joined the European Union. We returned to freedom, we returned to the family we belonged to before the Soviet regime occupied us. 20 years ago we had the freedom to choose and we chose Europe because together, even though we are different, we are stronger, safer and united in our diversity.
Membership in the European Union is not just a geographical designation. Participation is a confirmation of our will to stand up for common European values and to be together with countries that respect and protect human dignity, stand for human rights, freedom, equality and solidarity. Solidarity to Ukraine in its struggle for freedom, democracy and a rules-based international order.
In the field of foreign affairs, after 20 years, we evaluate the opportunities that Latvia’s accession to the European Union has given. Membership in the European Union gives us access to the world’s largest network of trade agreements with more than 70 partners. It is based on open, free and fair trade. Entrepreneurs have new opportunities for export, investment, as well as access to raw materials. On the other hand, consumers have access to a comprehensive range of goods and services. We also have protection against unfair competition.
Latvia has turned from a recipient country into a donor country – for world security and sustainability. Development cooperation funding has grown to 131 million euros in 2023 in 20 years. Latvia participates in large EU-funded development cooperation projects and activities. Ukraine has been the main priority in Latvia’s development cooperation, providing it with valuable experience and knowledge, which is now very useful for Ukraine on its way to the EU. The total EU support for Ukraine reaches 144 billion euros.
When traveling around the world, in emergency situations we can receive help from the representative office of another EU member state in a country where Latvia does not have its own representative office. If an identity document is lost, we can get a temporary travel document at the representative office of any EU member state in a country where Latvia does not have a representative office.
Expressing our civic duty and making a political choice, we can participate in the European Parliament elections on June 8 in 50 polling stations both in the EU and outside.
I am ME. We are Europe! #LV20EU
Events dedicated to Europe Day and the 20th anniversary of Latvia’s membership in the EU
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
