Armands Gūtmanis, CEO and founder of Amber Advisory Latvia
Latvian businesses are increasingly learning to view their growth strategies from a medium-term perspective, and within the European Union that perspective is significantly influenced by the Member State holding the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The better Latvian companies understand the priorities of the EU Presidency, the better they can anticipate how forthcoming EU legislation may affect their business.
Ireland has traditionally been regarded as one of the countries placing particular emphasis on economic growth, the Single Market, innovation, and strengthening Europe’s competitiveness. Based on Ireland’s long-standing policy direction and publicly stated objectives at the European level, five key priorities consistently emerge in its vision for the future of the European Union.
Green Transition and Energy Security
The EU’s emission reduction targets remain firmly in place. In our discussions with Latvian businesses, we increasingly hear concerns about how challenging it has become to continue reducing emissions, as many of the most straightforward measures have already been implemented. We therefore encourage companies to proactively seek new solutions for reducing emissions and to consider financing opportunities for these investments well in advance.
Climate policy remains one of the European Union’s central priorities, and Ireland continues to advocate for the transition towards a climate-neutral economy. At the same time, greater attention is being paid to ensuring that the green transition does not undermine the competitiveness of European industry.
Ireland strongly supports the development of renewable energy, particularly offshore wind power, where its geographical location provides significant advantages. Strengthening energy independence and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels are also key priorities.
Sustainable agriculture and food production play an equally important role. As one of Europe’s leading agricultural nations, Ireland seeks to strike a balance between achieving climate objectives and safeguarding the economic interests of farmers.
Strengthening European Competitiveness and EU Fund Investments
Governments across Europe are currently programming the next generation of EU funds for the 2028–2034 financial period. On behalf of our clients, we are actively engaging with the government to propose investment priorities that reflect the needs of businesses. At the same time, the European Commission is preparing significant reforms to the rules governing EU funding. Companies wishing to secure EU funding within the next few years should already be preparing today.
One of Ireland’s primary objectives is to enhance Europe’s global economic competitiveness. In recent years, rapid technological advances in the United States and China, combined with growing competition for investment and skilled talent, have created substantial challenges for Europe.
Ireland believes that Europe must reduce administrative burdens on businesses, simplify regulation, and create a more business-friendly environment. Particular emphasis is placed on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the European economy. During its Presidency, improving the Single Market by removing barriers to cross-border business and service provision would also be a major priority.
At the same time, Ireland strongly advocates attracting investment into high-tech industries, artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and research to ensure that Europe remains competitive in the global innovation race.
Digital Transformation and Innovation
Over the past decades, Ireland has established itself as one of Europe’s leading technology hubs. Many of the world’s largest technology companies have located their European headquarters there, making digital transformation one of Ireland’s natural policy priorities.
During its Presidency, considerable attention would be devoted to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure development. Another important objective is improving digital skills across all age groups, as access to a highly skilled workforce is becoming one of the key drivers of economic growth.
Ireland also supports the secure movement of data across the European Union while maintaining high standards of privacy and personal data protection. Digital transformation is viewed as a critical prerequisite for increasing business productivity and modernising public administration.
European Security and Resilience
Recent geopolitical developments have fundamentally reshaped Europe’s priorities. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, growing cybersecurity threats, and increasing global instability have all heightened the focus on European security.
Although Ireland has traditionally maintained a policy of military neutrality, it actively supports European cooperation in civil security, cybersecurity, and the protection of critical infrastructure. During its Presidency, particular attention would also be devoted to combating disinformation, hybrid threats, and foreign influence operations.
Economic resilience is equally important. This includes diversifying supply chains, securing access to critical raw materials, and strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy in sectors such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and energy.
An Open and Forward-Looking Europe
The fifth priority concerns the European Union’s long-term development and international cooperation. Ireland has consistently supported open trade, strong transatlantic relations, and international cooperation.
Particular attention is devoted to EU enlargement by supporting candidate countries in implementing reforms and gradually integrating into the European Union. At the same time, Ireland emphasises the importance of maintaining unity among Member States while strengthening democratic values, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
Ireland also places considerable importance on maintaining close cooperation with the United Kingdom following Brexit. Given the shared border with Northern Ireland and the close historical, economic, and political ties between the two countries, Ireland is committed to preserving stable bilateral relations.
Looking Ahead
Ireland’s Presidency priorities reflect its long-term vision of a competitive, digitally advanced, sustainable, and secure European Union. Its emphasis on innovation, business development, and strengthening the Single Market complements broader objectives related to the green transition, energy security, and Europe’s resilience in the face of geopolitical challenges.
At the same time, Ireland consistently champions the principles of an open economy and international cooperation, believing that only through close collaboration can Member States successfully address future challenges and preserve Europe’s global competitiveness.
The Presidency of the Council of the European Union provides each Member State with a significant opportunity to shape the EU agenda and advance key political priorities. Lasting six months, the Presidency is responsible for organising the work of the Council, facilitating compromise among Member States, and representing the Council in negotiations with the European Parliament and the European Commission.
For Latvia, as for every other Member State, the greatest opportunity to benefit from EU funding lies in closely following these priorities and adapting early to forthcoming changes in EU funding regulations.
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