On 1 June 2021, the Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Edgars Rinkēvičs, took part in the meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs via teleconference, at which preparations for the NATO Summit scheduled for 14 June was discussed. The Allies were in agreement about the vital importance of the summit for strengthening the transatlantic link and in the context of the Alliance’s ongoing adaptation.
Special attention was devoted to decisions prepared in the course of the NATO 2030 reflection process, decisions that should ensure the ability of the Alliance to successfully deliver on its core tasks in the next decade as well. These decisions cover a number of areas, including the review of NATO’s strategic concept, strengthening Allied consultations, enhancement of partnership and further steps in the reinforcement of the Alliance’s collective defence.
At the meeting, Edgars Rinkēvičs expressed support for the ambitious forward-looking agenda and the leadership of NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in the preparation of the summit. Edgars Rinkēvičs underlined that Latvia, being one of the Allies which is fully implementing the Alliance’s common guidelines concerning defence expenditures, stands ready to also support the increase of NATO’s common financing. This is necessary to ensure that resources are in place to enhance the Alliance’s political activities and support operations.
NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs also discussed current challenges, including Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine and the unacceptable behaviour of Belarus forcibly diverting a civilian passenger plane to Minsk National Airport. The meeting will also feature discussions on the Alliance’s further support for Afghanistan in the wake of Operation Resolute Support.