A Bridge towards the East

He considers accession to the European Union “the achievement of a great goal”, long awaited “since independence obtained in 1991”; stressed “Europe’s role in supporting democracy” in his country; he is in favour of the euro and Lisbon Treaty while disapproves of a different pace within the EU. Latvian President Valdis Zatlers has clear viewpoint on community integration. While celebrating “the fifth anniversary of the country’s accession into the EU and NATO” he is looking for closer political ties with the other former Soviet Republics.A starting point. Latvian head of state, invited to Strasbourg to speak to the European Parliament in Strasbourg used strong Pro-European terms. He mainly highlighted the accession’s practical and obvious advantages, after Soviet collapse. Following the official speech he talked with journalists of current international issues. He described the European Union as a “democratic family”, ” which we wanted to join after freeing ourselves from communism”. Zatlers claims his people’s full historical participation and European identity, stressing post- war sufferings. He also acknowledges recent mistakes as the best way to find a solution. “We considered our entrance into the EU as a final goal, rather than a starting point, thus lost many opportunities”. Domestic rancour emerged from his statements: “After entering in the EU the previous government didn’t realize it was a starting point and rested in its laurels.”.Important common values. Valdis Zatlers continued to mention history: Latvia has undergone a “totalitarian ideology imposed by tanks”: this is why we established a National Day for the victims of totalitarianism; remembering in order to “acknowledge” and look ahead. The President of the Baltic Republic doesn’t want to remain anchored in the past. In his balanced speech he took a stock of the five years in the “common house”. “In the EU we strengthened our country’s democratic institutions. We achieved an unexpected economic and social development, and felt part of the European identity. My people worked on strong common values, such as freedom – we deeply cherish – democracy, equal rights.” Brussels’ structural funds helped “to spur national economy by creating infrastructures, modernization of the productive structure, favouring a better situation for foreign investments”. Creating occupation and even a slight consumption growth.Euro by 2012? “Latvia’s voice is being heard in Europe”. The President added: “I don’t see a separate Europe (small and big countries). All countries play their own important roles. We have benefited from our accession, but have also committed ourselves.” Common challenges “we find on the way can be addressed together”. Zatlers goes on listing the economic crisis, which hasn’t spared Latvia, financial market rules, energy problems and foreign policy. Valdis Zatlers spoke of the macroeconomic situation, stressing the importance of a “global answer” to recession, advocating the Commission and Council’s prompt financial measures.” “Latvia plans to cut its public debt, paving the way for the euro. “. By 2012? How can he convince many of the citizens who are sceptical towards Europe? “They must also acknowledge benefits reaped during the years, and will become less sceptical”.“Bridge” to the east. Before leaving for the airport to catch a plane back to Riga, Latvia’s capital city, Zatlers made some comments on foreign policy and institutional problems. “The gas crisis between Ukraine and Russia showed how dependent we are on energy- supply. A specific policy is needed. Thus, we need a good Eastern neighbouring policy”. Latvia is going to be the bridge towards Eastern Europe. Then, he addressed the Lisbon Treaty issue. “Our citizens must be aware we are involved in a great common project, that entails rules and reforms. I’m in favour of the Treaty’s immediate enforcement. The division of Europe into a two way speed should be avoided” it would “jeopardize EU’s “solidarity”.