The summit is organized by the President of Estonia. The summit brings together heads of state and government from the Baltic states, Norway and Sweden. It aims to strengthen cooperation amongst the member countries and increase their influence in European and international affairs.
- Baltic leaders to focus on security energy cooperation at summit
The leaders of the Baltic countries are set to meet in Riga, Latvia, this week for the annual meeting of the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS). The CBSS summit is billed as a platform for member countries to discuss a wide range of issues facing the region. But there will also be plenty of time for leaders to discuss important security concerns. Russian aggression in Ukraine and elsewhere has put NATO on alert, and it’s widely expected that all three Baltic states will officially join the alliance by the end of next year. In addition to compliance with NATO standards and commitments, the Baltics need greater cooperation on energy security and diversification away from Russia as they transition from heavy dependence on oil and gas imports. And they also need support in securing their borders against illegal migration flows.
- Baltic summit: a chance to reset relations with Russia
In the summit’s closing minutes, the leaders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania discussed a possible “reset” in the countries’ relations with Russia. President Vladimir Putin has taken a strong position against NATO expansion into the region, and he has used this as an opportunity to drive a wedge between Europe and the United States. But while no formal agreement was made at the summit, it was clear that the Baltic states had found common cause with each other and with NATO as they worked to present a united front to Russia.
- Baltic summit program: a closer look at the issues
The Baltic Summit is a biannual meeting in the Baltic Sea region. It is a platform for countries in the area to discuss their bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues of concern. The summit is organized by Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in cooperation with the European Union (EU). It was first held in Tallinn in 1991. Since then, it has been held regularly every two years.
The program of the summit covers a wide range of issues. These include economic cooperation and trade, migration and security, energy, education, innovation and human rights.
In addition to discussing concrete policy issues, the summit also serves as an opportunity for countries to strengthen their diplomatic ties and build trust among themselves. It also provides an opportunity for civil society groups to engage with policymakers on shared priorities.