At the EAPC Ministerial meeting Brussels, 8 Dec. 1998

Address of H.E. Dr. Valdis Birkavs, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia Mr. Chairman, I would like to address three aspects of future security challenges, namely NATO's leadership, Partner support and, finally, how we can meet challenges jointly. NATO's leadership The post Cold War era has changed the nature of challenges. In place of bi-polarism we are faced with diverse risks characterised by local tensions and conflicts involving human suffering, spread of weapons of mass destruction and terrorist activities. Although these events may fall outside the borders of the Alliance or on the periphery of Europe, they nevertheless influence us all. They need to be met head on by NATO acting together with others. This new situation obliges NATO to preserve the role of being a credible deterrent. It also demands a strong lead. The example of the way in which the tragic events in Kosovo have been dealt with illustrated the need for firmness. By refusing to be held hostage to UN Security Council vetoes NATO's credibility was tested. The challenge of the Kosovo crisis witnessed positive interaction with other international agencies, but a crucial lead role was played by NATO. This offered important lessons for the future. Partner support As an aspiring member and current partner of NATO, Latvia attaches great importance to a continued involvement in facing these future security challenges. What can we do alone to help meet these challenges? First of all, by ensuring that stability is enhanced in our own country and the region. In this context, let me mention just a few very positive recent developments in Latvia. Elections in October resulted in continuation of foreign policy - speedy integration into Euro-Atlantic structures - as well as a commitment to increasing defense spending. We have been admitted to the World Trade Organisation. Our referendum on Citizenship issues ensured that the integration of non Latvians into society will continue with the blessing of our Western allies. The EU Commission acknowledged our significant economic and political progress over the last year and recommended that we join the fast track on negotiations next year. In the regional context, we participate in a wide range of cooperative initiatives, including joint Baltic projects, Baltic-Nordic cooperation, the Council of the Baltic Sea states and others. We are committed to the development of good relations with all our neighbours. Our ability to meet future challenges is enhanced by active participation through the framework of partner cooperation within NATO. And here the challenges are dealt with jointly. Meet the challenges jointly Participation in the IFOR and SFOR missions in Bosnia is an illustration of our engagement. Latvia has also committed a small number of men to the verification mission in Kosovo. Although the size and scope of our contributions are determined by the limitation on our resources, these contributions nevertheless illustrate that Latvia has the political determination to face these challenges as they arise. This practical involvement can, of course, be further enhanced. That is why we favour NATO-led PfP operations offering deeper partner involvement at the planning level. This would give the added benefit of also enhancing our interoperability. Conclusion Mr. Chairman, colleagues. Future security challenges can best be met by a firm NATO lead, with partner support and joint participation. In addition, these challenges can best be faced by an Alliance that reduces uncertainty about its future size. The Washington Summit must go further than Madrid. It should move forward the enlargement process. The aspirations of those wishing to join should be rewarded, and the open door policy should be turned from one of a "virtual" policy into a real policy. Thank you, Mr. Chairman