Latvia expresses support for strengthening the EU’s strategic role in partner regions at the European Union development ministers' meeting

On 18 May 2026 in Brussels, Belgium, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Latvia to the European Union (EU), Lelde Līce-Līcīte, participated in a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in the development cooperation format. The main topics of discussion were the future of the EU’s external action, the role of the Global Gateway strategy in this context, and the impact of the war in Iran on global development, taking into account the growing needs of partner countries arising from crises and conflicts.

“Development cooperation is closely linked to the security and economic growth of the EU and partner countries; therefore, the EU’s priority must be support for Ukraine and other partner countries in the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood. It is essential that the EU acts in a coordinated manner and promotes cooperation with other international actors, as well as strengthens the role of EU Member States and ensures equal opportunities for all implementers of development cooperation initiatives, including civil society and small and medium-sized enterprises,” Lelde Līce-Līcīte emphasised at the meeting.

The central issue of the meeting was the approach to EU development cooperation policy, given the global trend of declining development funding, which is hindering development both in regions strategically close to the EU and in the least developed countries. Member States noted that the EU must remain a reliable partner while strengthening its strategic role and influence, including through the Global Gateway strategy, in line with the Team Europe approach.

The EU Foreign Affairs Council’s development cooperation format addresses issues related to development cooperation and humanitarian aid. The meeting on 18 May was chaired by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.