Prime Minister Michal: The next major goal of the Baltic States is efficient transport connections with Europe

"The Baltic States have proven time and again just how much can be achieved when you work together," Prime Minister Michal noted during a press conference following the meeting. "With EU support, we successfully completed the desynchronisation of our electricity systems from the Russian grid. We need to achieve our next major goal in that same spirit: ensuring that our transport network is better connected with the rest of Europe. In that regard, Rail Baltic must be completed by 2030."

Almost half of the route is currently under construction in the three countries, including 105 km of railway lines in Estonia. The Baltic States are also working together to secure the most favourable funding for the project in the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework, which was another topic discussed during today's meeting.

In addition, the three heads of government focused on support for Ukraine and security in the Baltic region during their meeting. Prime Minister Michal says the outcome of the peace talks in Ukraine will be crucial to Europe as a whole. "Respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity is a precondition for a just peace," he remarked. "Persuasive security guarantees will ensure that peace is maintained. To achieve this, we must make firm demands and keep up the pressure on Russia. Much depends on Europe. Next week, the European Council is due to adopt a decision on the use of Russia's frozen assets for the benefit of Ukraine. It is equally important that we move forward with the enlargement of the EU."

The Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian heads of government also discussed ways of bolstering resistance to Russian-Belarusian hybrid attacks, including by further restricting the movement of citizens of these aggressor states within Europe. Moreover, the three countries are seeking to ensure that the defence of the EU and NATO's eastern flank becomes a priority for all of Europe. The Baltic States are working together very effectively to develop anti-drone capabilities and are set to outline their objectives in this regard at the Eastern Flank summit being held in Helsinki on 16 December.

Next year, Estonia will take over the presidency of both the Baltic and Nordic-Baltic cooperation formats. "Our region forms the 10th largest economy in the world, and the second largest contributor to Ukraine," he said. "We are united by our belief in democracy, innovation and a secure Europe. We see our presidency as a good opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation, security and economic competitiveness."

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