“Today, we are going through times of change and witnessing an increase in armed conflicts, the efforts of non-democratic countries to forge closer alliances, and democracies coming under attack. Increasingly more often, questions arise about the future of the global order,” the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Krišjānis Kariņš, underlined in his address to the audience as he spoke about global security challenges at the opening session of Riga Conference 2023 on 20 October.
According to the Foreign Minister, to prevent regression into a world dominated by brutal force, democracies worldwide must strengthen their defence capabilities, which is already taking place, and mutual cooperation, including more active engagement with the international partners who have not yet made up their mind concerning their position on the violent conflict in Israel, the war in Ukraine and conflicts in African countries.
At the opening session of the Riga Conference 2023, views on current challenges to global security were also shared by Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for the Internal Market.
At this year’s forum, participants are discussing the need for a comprehensive strategy in support of Ukraine, the aspects of the international rule of law in countering Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and the impact of the Russian aggression on European economy. Views are also exchanged on progress made ahead of the Washington summit, including the strengthening of security in the Baltic Sea region, and on challenges to Europe’s military industry. The conference offers an international experts’ perspective of the increasing impact by the Indio-Pacific region on geopolitical processes. A separate discussion is held on the role of women in maintaining peace and security, and women in war-torn environments.
The Riga Conference, which is held for the 18th time, has evolved into an influential international forum over these years, bringing together high-profile politicians, diplomats, opinion leaders, academics, journalists covering international events, and decision-makers from all continents.
