Latvia's future is in Europe, with Progresīvie

Ciarán Cuffe addressing Kongress, 25 April 2026 

Dear friends, dear Progresīvie, 

 

It is a pleasure to be with you in Riga today. I bring warm greetings from the European Green Party, and from your friends and allies across Europe.

Let me start by making it clear - what happens here in Latvia matters far beyond this one country.
Why do I say that? Our continent is living through an age of instability. Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine continues to test our  resolve. Recently, the war in Iran has added new economic strain and renewed pressure on energy prices. Across Europe, citizens are anxious about security, about democratic stability, and about whether their standard of living can be protected in an increasingly uncertain world.

In moments like this, voters ask a simple question: who is serious enough to be trusted to protect the country? To defend the economic wellbeing of citizens, as well as the integrity of our democracies? And who can ensure that the country stays firmly anchored in the European Union and the Euro-Atlantic alliance?This October, Latvia faces a serious decision. Voters will have to choose between a democratic, European and development oriented future, or one dominated by populists who could weaken democracy, damage Latvia’s Western direction and erode the foundations of the state. One thing is certain - if Latvia is to have a democratic, European and development oriented government after the election, Progresīvie will need to be a central part of that government. You have shown that a modern, pro-European, progressive force can govern responsibly. You have demonstrated that it is possible to combine principle with competence, solidarity with security, and reform with stability.

Latvian Minister for Culture Agnese Lāce

And you have an impressive track record in government to show voters. Minister Agnese Lāce has brought intelligence and dignity to the Ministry of Culture, helping to strengthen the civic and cultural fabric of Latvian democracy. Minister Atis Švinka has contributed to the transport and infrastructure agenda that Latvia needs for resilience, mobility and deeper European integration. And Minister Andris Sprūds  has provided calm and credible leadership in defence, reinforcing Latvia’s security, helping to build a drone coalition and maintaining a firm commitment to Ukraine. And who would be better to represent that commitment to your country, to the needs of ordinary citizens and to the democratic integrity of Latvia than your chosen candidate for Prime Minister, Andris Šuvajevs?  Andris brings intellectual seriousness, economic expertise and a clear sense of democratic purpose. He represents a politics that is thoughtful, capable and future oriented. That is precisely the kind of leadership Latvia will need in the years ahead.

The priorities he has set out for this campaign are exactly the right ones.First, to defend democracy and  the foundations of Latvia’s statehood, and to prevent anti-democratic forces from dragging the country backwards. Second, to address the cost of living crisis, while making Latvia’s economy more resilient through real energy security. That means reducing dependence, protecting households, investing in renewables, strengthening infrastructure and making sure Latvia is not exposed every time a geopolitical shock hits global energy markets. And third, to deepen Latvia’s ties with its allies - in the Baltic states, in the European Union, across the wider European continent and in the Euro-Atlantic alliance. Latvia’s voice must be strong, clear and respected. And it is strongest when it stands with its allies.

Opening of Progresīvie Kongress

As I look around this room, I see a party of integrity and confidence. So, as this campaign unfolds, I hope you will carry that confidence with you. Confidence in your record in government. Confidence in your values. And confidence in your ability to help shape Latvia’s future for the better. The European Green Party is proud to stand with you, proud of what you have achieved, and proud of what you are building.

I wish you every success in the months ahead.