SOUTH CAUCASUS ACCESSION TO EU AND NATO POSSIBLE, LATVIAN SAEIMA SPEAKER STATED

PanARMENIAN.Net - The accession of the countries of the South Caucasus to the EU and NATO is possible if these countries put such a goal and retain it irrespective of the change of political structures, Latvian Saeima Speaker Ingrida Udre. At that in her words, when it is possible, the issue depends on the readiness of the states to cooperate with various institutions and to meet certain criteria, as Latvia has done. «I can say that the way to the EU and the NATO is very difficult. It is for many reasons connected with not very popular reforms, passing non-popular laws and issues, referring to budget distribution,» I. Udre emphasized, adding that if politicians are ready to pass non-popular decisions, it will open opportunities for each state. Speaking of Wider Europe: New Neighbors program, the Latvian Saeima Speaker noted it aims at supporting democratic reforms in states, bordering with the EU, especially its new neighbors. «I think that the idea of such a new program is a very good one, as it provides for some financial resources,» I. Udre emphasized, adding that each state wants to see «friendly and democratic» neighbors next to itself.