Baltic Assembly urges British and Irish colleagues to foster unity in addressing geopolitical challenges

On 12-14 October 2025, the Baltic Assembly attended the 67th Plenary Session of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly (BIPA), which took place in Surrey, the United Kingdom. During the meeting, participants discussed relations between the United Kingdom and Ireland and the overall defence and security of Europe. 

President of the Baltic Assembly Jānis Vucāns addressed the plenary, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation between European parliaments in the face of growing geopolitical challenges. He expressed appreciation for the partnership between the Baltic Assembly and BIPA, noting that both organisations share the same democratic values and responsibility to safeguard peace. 

For the Baltic States, the full-scale war in Ukraine posed by Russia remains a central security concern, Jānis Vucāns stated that “we – the Baltic States – see this fight as our own. This year, we marked the 36th anniversary of the Baltic Way, when Latvians, Estonians and Lithuanians stood together in a human chain, peacefully protesting the Soviet occupation of our nations. We honour this peaceful demonstration as a symbol of unity and hope, but it contrasts with the brutal reality of Soviet occupation. In our countries, thousands suffered through arrests, deportations, and systemic oppression. Having lived through Soviet occupation, the Baltic States understand deeply that Ukraine’s struggle is not only its own—it is a fight for freedom, justice, and the future of Europe.”

Emphasis was also placed on the leadership of the United Kingdom within NATO and the humanitarian contribution and solidarity of Ireland within the European Union, especially its support for Ukrainian refugees and its strong commitment to democratic values.

After the address, parliamentarians from the UK and Ireland expressed gratitude toward the Baltic States for being in the position as front-line states of NATO. It was also highlighted that more attention has to be paid toward collective security and defence to deter any potential risks and that Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania can be viewed as examples. 

Photos