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Europe’s security and economic resilience today are closely linked with the United States (US), and transatlantic cooperation must intensify in light of current geopolitical challenges. This was emphasised by Jānis Vucāns, President of the Baltic Assembly (BA) and Head of its Latvian delegation, at a session of the Benelux Parliament in Luxembourg on Friday, 28 November.

Vucāns noted that the partnership between the European Union and the US has gained new momentum in recent years, including in trade and security. “The agreement on customs tariffs reached in July of this year has revived transatlantic trade, ensuring stability and predictability for European businesses. It strengthens our economic resilience at a time when the global situation is becoming increasingly complex,” said the President of the BA.

Vucāns stressed that, in terms of security, the United States has historically been an important partner in the Baltic Sea region. The US did not recognise the occupation of the Baltic States, supported the restoration of their independence, and today provides a significant military presence. “In recent years, US support—including funding for the Baltic Security Initiative, which reached 228 million USD in 2024—has significantly strengthened our air defence and military capabilities,” stated Vucāns.

Transatlantic unity is of particular importance when discussing peace and security in Europe. In this context, the President of the BA emphasised that any solution regarding Ukraine must be based on international law:
“The path to peace must be fair and in accordance with international law—it must fully respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. No negotiation format should be implemented without Ukraine’s consent or at the expense of its security.”

Vucāns noted that the Baltic States reaffirm their readiness to be active partners in transatlantic cooperation, including by committing to reach five percent of their gross domestic product in defence spending. “Our security is stronger when Europe and the US act in unison,” he stressed.

At the end of his speech, the President of the BA called for maintaining a unified approach on both security and economic issues: “In times of global instability, strong partnerships are more important than ever. Together, we—the Baltic States, Benelux, and the United States—can build a safer and more economically resilient Europe.”

The session of the Benelux Parliament discussed the new EU–US customs duties, their impact on the economies of Member States, as well as strengthening a joint approach in combating tax fraud and money laundering.

Saeima Press Service