Baltic Assembly and BSPC reaffirm close cooperation in Riga – Clear messages on unity, security and regional resilience
At the joint session of the Baltic Assembly and the Baltic Council in Riga, Kristina Herbst, President of the BSPC, highlighted the long-standing and close cooperation between the Baltic Assembly and the BSPC.
“For the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference, the Baltic Assembly is more than a partner — it is one of its foundations,” Herbst stated. She expressed her appreciation for Professor Jānis Vucāns, President of the Baltic Assembly and former President of the BSPC, noting: “His advice during my first months as BSPC President has been very valuable.”
Herbst addressed the current geopolitical situation with clarity: “Russia’s continuing aggression against Ukraine has shaken the foundations of European security. This war is not only about territory. It is also about our values — freedom, democracy and the rule of law.” She paid tribute to the role of the Baltic States, stating: “Your citizens have proved that unity and determination can protect democracy even under pressure.”
A key theme of the session was connectivity as a strategic element for unity, economic development and security. Herbst stressed that “connectivity means more than roads, ports and railways. It means building the links that keep our region united — politically, economically and digitally.” She referred to the BSPC Working Group on Strengthening Cyber and Information Resilience, where members from the Baltic States play an important role in addressing disinformation and hybrid threats.
Herbst underlined the shared mandate of both organisations: “Through dialogue and recommendations, we give a joint voice to the parliaments of the Baltic Sea. Our work helps to show that this sea does not divide us — it connects us.” She added that “democratic cooperation is not a weakness, but a source of strength.”
On the evening before the session, the Baltic Assembly Prizes and Medals Award Ceremony at the Mežaparks Grand Bandstand offered a warm and culturally rich opening to the Riga meetings. In the historic surroundings of the Baltic song festival grounds, the atmosphere was open and familiar. The awards recognised achievements in literature, the arts, science, innovation and contributions to cooperation — a reflection of the cultural depth that continues to support regional cohesion.
Together, the events in Riga showed once more how essential the partnership between the Baltic Assembly and the BSPC remains for stability, resilience and democratic strength in the Baltic Sea region.