Pivnenko Addresses the 9^th Baltic Sea States Summit

Valentina Pivnenko, Chairman of the BSPC, addressed the 9^th Baltic Sea States Summit in Stralsund 31^st May, hosted by German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Merkel emphasized the importance of the parliamentary dimension of cooperation in the Baltic Sea Region, stating that it contributes greatly to the democratic legitimacy of cooperation. Speaking directly after Chancellor Merkel´s opening, Pivnenko praised the mutually beneficial interaction between BSPC and CBSS, and thanked the outgoing German CBSS Presidency for constructive exchange. She highlighted the need to promote cooperation on modernization and innovation, to create a network of public-private partnerships, and to promote tolerance as a means of countering extremism. Actions to combat eutrophication are of crucial importance for environmental health. “Cooperation on green economy, energy efficiency, nuclear safety and infrastructure, together with labour market integration, are important means to foster economic growth and social well-being. BSPC will stay committed to the Baltic Sea Labour Forum”, Pivnenko affirmed. Cooperation on health and social welfare, and a sustained fight against crime and corruption, will make the Baltic Sea Region a safer and more secure home. She stressed that the further integration and cohesion of the Region requires an unimpeded mobility of people and enterprises and a dismantling of administrative obstacles such as visa restrictions. “Finally, I would like to reiterate that all the countries of the Region, both EU members and non-EU members, must have access to cooperation on an equal basis”, Pivnenko concluded.
An English translation of Pivenko´s address can be retrieved from: https://www.bspc.net/file/show/554