Invites to combine Latvian and Estonian packaging deposit systems

2023-04-24 15:53:41

The President of Estonia, Alars Karis, calls for the merger of Latvian and Estonian beverage packaging deposit systems.

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After a meeting with the Latvian President Egils Levitas, Kariss told journalists in Riga on Monday, April 24, that the residents of the two neighboring countries actively consume the products of the other country. Latvia is Estonia’s second largest trade partner. Last year, Estonian exports to Latvia accounted for 63%, and imports – 35%.

Although the exchange of goods is becoming more and more active, Latvia and Estonia have not connected packaging deposit systems. According to Karis, this would be a small but important step in creating a cleaner environment.

He also pointed out that with an Estonian digital prescription, you can buy medicines in Portugal, but not in Latvia. According to the President of Estonia, active efforts are being made to make this possible.

Karis emphasized that citizens are increasingly active across borders and the implementation of practical matters becomes particularly important.

The presidents of Estonia and Latvia also discussed the implementation of the high-speed railway infrastructure project “Rail Baltica”. Karis emphasized that a simple principle applies in this matter – the more you do, the easier it will be to prove to the European Commission why this project needs funding. The presidents agreed that “Rail Baltica” should be built in full, connecting the Baltic states with Europe.

The President of Estonia also indicated that the desynchronization of the Baltic states from the BRELL electricity supply loop, which connects Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia with Belarus and Russia, should be accelerated.

Estonian President Karis arrived in Latvia on a state visit on April 24. The presidents of Latvia and Estonia will participate in the opening discussion of the Estonian business forum “From Connectivity to Entrepreneurial Creativity” on Tuesday, April 25. On the other hand, on Wednesday, April 26, the two presidents will visit the Inchukalnas underground gas storage.