Closing words Moeller at 32 BSPC

Tiltrædelsestale 29. august 2023, BundestagHenrik Møller, præsident for BSPCLadies and gentlemen, esteemed parliamentarians andguests ,Thank you for the opportunity to stand here today , and forthe honor of being appointed President of the Baltic SeaParliamentary Conference . A task I will undertake withhumbleness and dedication.- 2 -I would like to thank former German President, Mr.Johannes Schraps for his work for the BSPC during hispresidency. Your engagement during these trying timeshas been very importa nt for this cooperation. Andcongratu lations on a successful conference here in theBundestag.The BSPC was established in 1991 as a f orum for politicaldialogue. Unfortunately Russia’s aggression in Ukraine- 3 -has been a reminder of a dark period that once seemedso far away .Ladies and gentlemen,We need to remember that in the late 20th century, theBaltic Sea region found itself divided by the harsh realitiesof the Cold War. Nations surrounding the Baltic Sea wereseparated not on ly by physical borders but by ideologicaldifferences. However, a spark of hope emerged whenpoliticians, diplomats, and citizens of these nationsrecognized the pressing need for unity and cooperation.- 4 -In the face of these challenges, the BSPC emerged as aplatform for dialogue, understanding, and joint action.During the early 1990s when the Baltic States - Estonia,Latvia, and Lithuania - were seeking to regain theirindependence from the Soviet Union - the BSPC played acrucial role in providing a forum for these nations . Thecollaboration fostered by the BSPC enabled the BalticStates to amplify their voices on the international stage,gathering support from other nations and organizations.This colle ctive strength ultimately led to the restoration of- 5 -independence for Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, markinga historic al triumph for the region.Ladies and gentlemen,This serves as a reminder of the vital role that the BSPCplays in nurturing cooperation, promoting mutualunderstanding, economic integration, and sustainabledevelopment across the region. By bringing togetherparliamentarians, experts, and stakeholders, the BSPCfacilitates dialogue, the exchange of ideas, and theformulation of joint strategies to t ackle common- 6 -challenges. The BSPC stands as an example of thepower of cooperation and unity. Its historical significance,as demonstrated by the Baltic States' struggle forindependence, showcases how collaborative efforts canovercome even the most difficult obstacles.Esteemed parliamentarians,During my Presidency I will work to enhance the role ofthe BSPC in promoting regional cooperation . Byupholding the principles of dialogue, understanding, andjoint action, we can continue to harness the collective- 7 -strength of the Baltic Sea nations and once again build abrighter future for us all.The Russian attack on Ukraine not only rattled thefoundations of continental stability but also triggered asignificant shift in the ene rgy policy in Europe . The urgentneed to diversify away from Russian energy sources,accelerate the transition from fossil fuels, and rapidlyscale up low -carbon energy and technologies has left anindelible mark on European economies and societies.- 8 -No corner of Europe has been spared from thistransformative energy dynamic, including the Baltic SeaRegion. We need to navigate the challenges andopportunities that lie ahead and work towards a secure,sustainable, and resilient energy future.Also, the governance of our environment must beadaptive and flexible to meet the challenges posed byclimate change. This summer’s horrific sceneries floodingand fires are very present in our minds. It is obvious, thatwe must recognize the limitations in predicting future- 9 -changes and chain reactions. Therefore, our governancearrangements and management practices shouldintegrate scientific knowledge with local expertise. Byfostering dialogue, offering financial incentives, and, whennecessary, using coercion, we can ensur e the integrationof climate adaptation and mitigation across varioussectors.Esteemed parliamentarians,In conclusion, safety and defense in the Baltic Sea area isof utmost importance for us all here today. The security- 10 -situation in the Baltic Sea has changed significantly overthe past 5 years. And with Finland and soon Sweden’smembership of NATO, the Baltic Sea will be a “NATOlake”. And to meet the security challenges in the BalticSea, we need to cooperate closer than ever to strengthenour defense capabilities.This is all something that I, as President of the BSPC, willfocus on in the coming year.- 11 -I look forward to heading a constructive and fruitfulcooperation. Thank you.