Zanda Kalnia-Lukaševica emphasises importance of establishing Energy Union and relations with eastern neighbours

On 11 March in Strasbourg, the Parliamentary State Secretary for European Affairs, Zanda Kalniņa-Lukaševica, took part in a debate of the European Parliament on preparations for the European Council of 19-20 March. The agenda of that Council meeting will cover the establishment of the Energy Union, economic governance and foreign policy issues, including the Eastern Partnership Summit, developments in Ukraine, relations with Russia, and the situation in Libya.

The Parliamentary State Secretary pointed out that the establishment of the Energy Union is yet another step towards Europe’s energy independence. Zanda Kalniņa-Lukaševica emphasised the importance of establishing the Energy Union and expressed satisfaction over the outputs from the Energy Union Conference in Riga on 6 February being reflected in the European Energy Union Strategy, including in relation to consumer interests and the importance of regional cooperation.

When responding to questions from MPs on the developments in Ukraine, the Parliamentary State Secretary noted that discussions at the European Council should yield comprehensive guidelines on further EU action. It should target a sustainable political solution focused on Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty. At the same time, the EU should provide support for the improvement of Ukraine’s economic situation and the implementation of the necessary reforms.

During the debate, Zanda Kalniņa-Lukaševica accentuated that the European Council’s guidelines will offer a significant contribution to preparation for the Eastern Partnership Summit in Riga. The future development perspective for the Eastern Partnership will be outlined at this summit.

Speaking about the annual cycle of economy and fiscal policy coordination within the EU, or the so-called European Semester, Zanda Kalniņa-Lukaševica confirmed the Latvian Presidency’s commitment to ensure that it proceeds effectively. The Latvian Presidency is also geared to work towards a piece of legislation vital for EU growth - the regulation on the European Fund for Strategic Investments - being fully adopted as early as in June.

The European Parliament convenes for a four-day plenary session (Monday to Thursday) once a month. Monthly one-day sessions also take place in Brussels.