The Baltic Forum's 12th International Conference
The EU and Russia in 2007: Negotiating a New Relationship
25 - 26 May, 2007
Maritim Park Hotel, 1 Slokas str., Riga
Reports Summary
Programme Gallery Video
Session One: THE NEW EU-RUSSIA RELATIONSHIP: PRINCIPLES, INTERESTS AND PROCESSES
On November 30, 2007, the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and Russia (PCA) will expire, making increasingly relevant the question of the future basis of the relations. What are the interests and the possibilities of the parties? What principles should the relations be based on in the future? How can the different perspectives on the future of the relations between the EU and Russia be reconciled? There are some important conclusions to be made from the difficulties and positive experiences of the ten years of the current PCA. But is just as important to approach the issue creatively and look for new, inventive approaches.
Session Two: ENERGY ISSUES IN THE EU - RUSSIA RELATIONS: THE LOGIC OF ECONOMY AND THE CONTEXT OF POLITICS
In the recent years, the energy component of the EU-Russia relationship has been in the frontline. On both sides, far-reaching cooperation plans have been put forward. At the same time, concerns over the political aspects of energy interdependence have been voiced. What is the real potential and what are the eventual consequences of the Russian companies entering the European energy markets? What is the real potential and what are the possible consequences of the expansion of Russian energy companies to European markets? Would the ratification by Russia of the Energy Charter Treaty help resolve these issues and create a sustainable basis for the relationship?
Panel discussion: THINKING DECADES AHEAD: IN SEARCH OF A GLOBAL VISION FOR EUROPE
What's Europe in the future: will it be a vaguely defined geographical entity or can it become a value-based community? Should the borders of Europe equal the borders of the EU? Is integration of Russia into, or with the European Union wishful thinking or a realistic prospect? Finally, what difference can Europe make as a global actor?
Special Economic Session: A BALANCED DEVELOPMENT PATH FOR THE LATVIAN ECONOMY: PROBLEMS, RISKS AND PERSPECTIVES
Session Three: RUSSIA-EUROPE TRANSIT: NEW POSSIBILITIES FOR LATVIA
Transit, transport and customs cooperation between the EU-Russia while paying special attention to Latvia's role. How can Latvia make the most of its unique geographical and political position? Of particular interest is the potential role of the Russian and Asian transit and the possibilities for handling Russian export and import goods in the Latvian ports. A special challenge and opportunity is presented by the future energy export from Russia. What can Latvia offer here in terms of routs and service? What infrastructure development is necessary to make use of the possibilities at hand?
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