European Union – Telephone conversation between Amélie de Montchalin and Edgars Rinkevics, Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs (30 Apr. 2020)

Amélie de Montchalin, Minister of State for European Affairs, attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, spoke today by phone with Edgars Rinkevics, Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs, as a follow-up to the video conference of ministers of European affairs on April 22 and of the EU heads of state and government on April 23.

The discussion focused on Europe’s response to the health crisis, notably with respect to the continued coordination of strategies to ease the lockdown measures and to prepare for economic recovery. The ministers are convinced of the need for an ambitious and supportive European economic recovery plan, focused on European priorities, especially the fight against climate change, digital technology and economic and social convergence.

The ministers also expressed their desire to learn from this crisis in order to work toward the emergence of a more united and sovereign Europe. The forthcoming launch of the Conference on the Future of Europe will offer, in this respect, an opportunity to debate this topic, in close cooperation with citizens.

The exchanges also provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of ensuring respect for the rule law and individual freedoms within the EU in the context of the health crisis. France and Latvia reaffirmed their support for the European Commission and the follow-up mechanisms it has implemented.