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One of the main issues discussed during the visits was a possibility for the resolution of the crisis in Ukraine. The Latvian Foreign Minister expressed firm support for the implementation of the Minsk agreements emphasising the need to establish genuine control over the Ukrainian-Russian border. The Minister also expressed hope that as the ministers meet in Berlin in the "Normandy format", they will be able to find the "intersection points" and, in so doing, make a tangible contribution to the political long-term resolution of the conflict in Eastern Ukraine.
The Latvian Foreign Minister also indicated that a review of the EU sanctions regime depends on the actions Russia will now be taking in Ukraine. The Ukrainian officials pointed out that they expect concrete steps and a constructive position that would facilitate de-escalation.
The Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov pointed out that from his perspective the Normandy format must help promote the dialogue and the fulfilment of the Minsk agreements.
During his visit to Kyiv, Foreign Minister Rinkēvičs expressed strong support for Ukraine's course of reforms and its territorial integrity. Edgars Rinkēvičs confirmed that Latvia as the country presiding over the Council of the EU is ready to explore every avenue and so as to maximise mobilisation of the EU's combined support both in terms of advancing the peace process and large scale reforms. This, in turn, will give Ukraine what it needs both for long-term development and to ensure socio-economic stability.
The Minister called on Ukraine to actively pursue the course of its planned reforms. Minister Rinkēvičs wished Ukraine the courage to implement reforms and put its commitments into practice, thereby de facto bringing the country closer to the European Union.
The Ukrainian officials thanked Latvia for the support it has given and continues to offer to Ukraine at this difficult time in history. The parties agreed to join efforts to strengthen EU-Ukraine cooperation in order to bring Ukraine closer to the EU. Ukraine will be closely cooperating on questions of the Eastern Partnership, and is hoping for positive results at the Riga Summit in May, including with regard to visa liberalisation.
During his visit to Moscow, Minister Rinkēvičs presented Latvia's priorities for its Presidency of the Council of the EU. The Latvian and Russian Ministers discussed the prospects for the eastern Partnership Policy and EU-Russia relations. Minister Rinkēvičs also informed Russian officials about the upcoming Eastern Partnership Summit in Riga, emphasizing its role in dealing with practical matters in order to promote stability and prosperity in the region. The Eastern Partnership is not aimed against any country, it is an inclusive policy tailored to the needs and possibilities of each individual country.
As part of the Presidency agenda, Riga will host the meetings of ministers for education and transport in the "ASEM format", and Russia's representatives are also expected to attend.
In discussing EU-Russia relations, Edgars Rinkēvičs emphasised that the EU is interested in normalisation of relations and constructive cooperation-building based on international law and universally recognised norms. Foreign Minister Rinkēvičs emphasised that the key to the future of relations is in Russia's hands – namely, the actions it will now be taking in Ukraine, the fulfilment of commitments of the Minsk agreement, and de-escalation of the conflict as proof of words spoken in favour of peace. Neither the EU nor other countries are interested in Russia's isolation. They all wish to see Russia as a responsible cooperation partner in international relations. The renewal of trust and confidence will take time, but it is not impossible.
The Latvian Foreign Minister drew attention to an unfortunate and significant deterioration of the security environment in the Baltic Sea region. Russia's stepped up military activity, including through flights of military aircraft that have been posing a threat to civilian air traffic, are very hard to explain. NATO has been forced to respond and reinforce its presence. The spirit of trust must be restored and we are in favour of a dialogue on these matters, indicated Minister Rinkēvičs.
The Latvian Foreign Minister also emphasised that Crimea's annexation will not be recognised, and the EU's position on this matter position is united and firm.
