The Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) Summit has concluded in Oslo (Norway), where the JEF member states committed to further enhancing security across the Baltic Sea Region and the Arctic, including deterrence and collective defence capabilities.
Responding to the media questions ahead of the JEF working sessions, Prime Minister E. Siliņa emphasized: "Through our joint efforts as allies in the EU, NATO, and JEF framework, we stand much stronger than Russia."
"By uniting all the countries that are part of the NATO framework, we collectively contribute to a much larger gross domestic product, we have significantly enhanced our military capabilities and we have substantially strengthened our defence industry over the past two years – more than Russia may have anticipated. We are strong when we are united, and I believe in strong alliances," the Prime Minister emphasized.
The summit addressed the key concerns related to regional security, the importance of transatlantic relations, and continued support for Ukraine.
"Our common goal is to strengthen the region’s security and enhance our collective capability to respond effectively during crises. It is vital that we consistently coordinate our actions and communication within the JEF framework," the Prime Minister stated.
The leaders also focused on the actions taken thus far against Russia's ‘shadow fleet’ and explored opportunities for joint surveillance and coordination to combat hybrid maritime threats.
The officials also committed to strengthening cooperation with Ukraine within the Enhanced Partnership framework, and discussed specific support measures to strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities and engage it in joint military exercises.
The heads of state and government discussed the security situation in the Arctic (High North) and practical steps to improve the JEF's operational capability and its role in strengthening regional security.
The meeting in Oslo (Norway) was attended by leaders from all 10 JEF countries: the United Kingdom, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden.
