Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins and Alternate Foreign Minister Greece share opinion on importance of EU enlargement
On 13 January, Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins met with the Alternate Minister for Foreign Affairs of Greece, Dimitris Droutsas. During the meeting, the parties discussed the development of bilateral relations between both countries, the prospects of the political dialogue, as well as economic co-operation.
In their discussion, the ministers devoted great attention to the European Union agenda, in view of the EU transition period during the implementation of the Treaty of Lisbon, the new composition of the European Commission, and setting up the European External Action Service. The ministers shared the opinion that member states should be adequately represented in the new European External Action Service. The parties also focused on the EU enlargement process. "Latvia supports the open door policy regarding the enlargement process. Nevertheless, potential member states must comply with the established accession criteria," Minister Riekstins pointed out. While reviewing the situation in various regions, including Western Balkans, Minister Riekstins made note of Latvia's position to support the European Union's earlier decisions regarding the EU membership prospects of those countries. The parties also noted the significance of EU's Eastern Partnership for promoting stability in the regions outside the European Union. With regard to economic challenges faced by a number of countries, Foreign Minister Riekstins emphasised positive indicators of trade between Latvia and Greece and noted the potential of strengthening economic relations. Mr Riekstins indicated the important role of tourism for the economic development of both countries, Greece being among the most favourite destinations for Latvian tourists. During the meeting, Alternate Foreign Minister of Greece Dimitris Droutsas invited Foreign Minister Maris Riekstins to come on a visit to Greece. Dimitris Droutsas has been in the post of Alternate Foreign Minister of Greece since 7 October 2009. Officially, the position of Foreign Minister is held by Prime Minister George Papandreou.
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