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Dear colleagues,
Ladies and gentlemen,
First of all, let me thank the Greek Presidency for the initiative to hold this meeting and for hosting it.
We share a vision and the will to combine our efforts for a common future for Europe. A future where a new family of secure, stable and prosperous nations spans the entire European continent.
Latvia, along with the EU, is fully committed to supporting the reforms promoting regional stability and democratic development in the Western Balkans.
Full use of the assistance provided by the EU should be made by the countries of the region. However, implementation of the Copenhagen criteria and the conditions set for the Stabilisation and Association Process will depend not only on EU assistance, but also on the political will of the Western Balkan countries. Their determination to implement comprehensive reforms ensuring a strong and sustainable reform process is vitally important.
Latvia is ready to share its experience of the internal reform process leading to integration into the EU. The experience we gained during the accession proves the close link between fulfilment of EU accession criteria and the success of the internal reform process.
Let me emphasize regional cooperation as another essential factor in promoting stability and security in the region and ensuring economical development. I would like to encourage the countries of the Western Balkan region to further develop all types of regional cooperation. By consolidating their efforts, the Baltic countries have accelerated their reform process and achieved remarkable results.
In conclusion, I am confident that through joint efforts and determination we will be able to achieve the objectives set today. The future of the Western Balkan countries lies in the European Union.
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