Dear Rector, faculty, and students!

I am pleased to welcome you on Europe Day.

75 years ago, the Schuman Declaration called on European nations to cooperate economically for peace on a war-torn continent. This led to the creation of the EU as we know it today.

Today, I want to reflect on the benefits of EU membership for Latvia and the current challenges concerning security and competitiveness, where science and innovation play a key role.

After regaining independence, Latvia rightly chose integration with the West. Joining the EU on May 1, 2004, was a return to the European family of democratic nations.

In 21 years, Latvia has experienced economic growth thanks to the EU. The internal market provides entrepreneurs access to a 450 million consumer market. This facilitates exports and makes quality products cheaper for consumers.

Many have taken advantage of the freedom to travel, work, and study in other member states. The Erasmus+ program has helped thousands of Latvian youths broaden their horizons.

For over eleven years, our Milda has adorned euro coins. The euro has brought practical benefits: lower currency conversion costs, easier travel, lower interest rates, and savings.

Since 2004, Latvia has received over 18 billion euros in EU support, invested in infrastructure, education, and the environment. This is visible throughout Latvia.

This year alone, Latvia will receive nearly one and a half billion euros in EU investments. From 2021 to 2027, Latvia will receive over 10 billion euros.

EU membership has helped Latvia overcome crises, such as the 2008-2009 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, with substantial EU support.

Since joining, Latvias GDP per capita has risen from 42% to 71% of the EU average. Differences with wealthier EU countries continue to decrease.

The EU has strengthened democracy and the rule of law in Latvia. EU and NATO membership have increased Latvias security.

A new generation of Latvians feels connected to the EU and proud of Latvia. We contribute to the European project with unique experiences and perspectives.

We are no longer a new member state. Latvia is a mature partner in addressing European challenges. Our history shows that even great challenges can be overcome.

Currently, security and economic competitiveness are top priorities for the EU. Ukraine fights for freedom and protects Europe from Russian imperialism. Since the Russian invasion, the EU has supported Ukraine with nearly 150 billion euros.

To ensure security, we must punish aggression and continue to support Ukraine for a just peace.

The EU is a peace project, but must also be strong to maintain peace. The EU must take more responsibility for its defense. Therefore, the European Commission has developed the ReArm Europe / Ready 2030 plan to strengthen defense capacity.

The plan mobilizes 800 billion euros over four years for defense capabilities, including a new 150 billion euro SAFE loan program for critical defense investments.

The Commission has also proposed more flexibility in EU budget rules, allowing member states to increase defense investments.

Besides investments, better coordination between member states and deepening the European defense market are essential.

It is important to develop the military industry in the EU for employment and growth. Latvian companies have growth opportunities in the defense industry, both locally and for export.

Science, research, and security are closely intertwined. Drones, AI, and new technologies are changing warfare.

The Commission plans to increase support for innovation in defense. This year, over one billion euros is already available for defense research through the European Defense Fund.

Positively, the Riga Technical University is involved, such as the recent EU defense innovation hackathon in Rezekne.

For effective defense, both technology and trained people are needed. Research and innovation in defense remain key directions for students.

We must also strengthen the EUs economic competitiveness, which has weakened in recent years.

Although Latvia has experienced rapid economic growth since joining the EU, growth rates and productivity increases have recently slowed.

AI, automation, semiconductors, and other technologies are changing the global economy. There is strong competition from the US and China.

The Commission has developed the Competitiveness Compass strategy for growth-promoting reforms.

Historically, scientific discoveries and innovations are the fuel for economic growth. To keep up with other major economies, the EU must significantly increase research investments.

It is also important to support companies in technology implementation and to promote creative startups.

Education and research quality affects our ability to create new knowledge and commercialize it successfully.

The EU needs a highly skilled workforce capable of critical thinking, solving complex problems, and adapting to technological changes.

The Commission has launched the Skills Union initiative to improve Europeans skills and develop talent, with a focus on strengthening STEM areas.

The Commissions strategic STEM education plans aim to improve Europeans skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

We must also reduce bureaucracy. For the first time, reducing administrative burdens is a top priority for the Commission.

We aim to reduce administrative burdens by 25%, and for small and medium-sized enterprises - which include almost all Latvian companies - by at least 35%.

In February, the Commission presented proposals for sustainability and investment, saving European businesses at least 6.3 billion euros annually.

More proposals will follow, such as reducing administrative burdens for farmers and in defense.

Unnecessary requirements that hinder the use of EU funds for education and science must be addressed.

Bureaucracy is not only a European but also a national issue, and must be addressed in Latvia as well.

Regarding current economic challenges, US trade tariffs should also be mentioned. Although the initial impact is particularly negative for the US, they negatively affect the global economy.

The EU continues negotiations with the US to reach an agreement.

This underscores the need for the EU to decisively implement the Competitiveness Compass initiatives.

Although the mentioned challenges are serious, it should be emphasized that the EU has advantages in these turbulent times. Many countries are interested in deepening cooperation with the EU as a predictable partner.

Universities and research institutions worldwide face censorship and other challenges. The EU protects freedom of expression, science, and research.

This week, the Commission announced a new plan to improve conditions for science and researchers.

The European Innovation Act will reduce administrative barriers, improve access to funding, and facilitate innovation testing.

With additional funding of 500 million euros by 2027, the EU aims to attract top scientists from around the world.

Regarding science and innovation development in Latvia, there are challenges and opportunities to address them.

In the 2024 Global Innovation Index, Latvia ranked 42nd. The latest EU report on digitalization shows that Latvia still has work to do.

A significant factor hindering the development of the knowledge economy in Latvia is the shortage of human resources.

The Technical Universitys Talent Program helps students improve their skills.

In addition to structural funds, the Recovery Fund is an important source of support for education and science in Latvia.

With the Recovery Fund, education and research in Latvia are strengthened.

The Technical University leads a project in the field of high-performance computing.

Latvia has good opportunities to take a leading role in specific technology areas.

The Technical University coordinates the establishment of a National Chip Competence Center.

This initiative will strengthen Latvias international competitiveness in the microelectronics sector.

International collaboration with scientists worldwide is important for scientific excellence in Latvia.

In this context, Latvias goal to become a full member of CERN by 2027 is commendable.

Dear attendees,

In times of increasing global instability, the EU is more important than ever.

Latvia benefits from a strong EU that leads in innovation and economic growth.

A Union that defends its citizens and values.

Today, I invite you to celebrate our belonging to the EU.

All of you here are part of the European story, responsible for Europes future.

As Jean Monnet said, Europe will be built through crises, and will be the sum of the decisions made in those crises.

Consider what is necessary before asking what is possible.

May this principle guide your studies and research.

Thank you for your attention!