Dialogue shifted focus: Raimond Kaljulaid posits that without the Baltic states, European discussions would devolve into mere tea and snack affairs.

Dialogue shifted focus: Raimond Kaljulaid posits that without the Baltic states, European discussions would devolve into mere tea and snack affairs.

Title: Keeping Border States in the Loop: Ensuring Equal Representation at International Meetings Supporting Ukraine

Following the lackluster Zelenskyy-Trump conference, the British prime minister extended invitations to 16 world leaders to London. However, the omission of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania — border nations with Russia and staunch allies of Ukraine, both in terms of financial aid and GDP share — stirred controversy. Here's how we can ensure such oversights are a thing of the past.

Leaving No One Behind

Securing equal representation for border states with Russia in future international gatherings backing Ukraine necessitates strategic and inclusive planning. Here's a roadmap:

1. Pre-Meeting Consultations

• A Seat at the Table: Engage in preliminary discussions with all bordering states to gather their insights and concerns about the conflict. This ensures their specific needs and viewpoints are addressed.

2. Amplifying Diverse Voices

• United Front: Encourage and facilitate participation from a range of countries, particularly those neighboring Russia, at international meetings. This may involve giving them speaking slots and prioritizing their input during key discussions.

3. Empowering Smaller States

• Lending a Helping Hand: Offer assistance and resources to smaller border states so they can follow suit at these meetings. This could comprise training, financial aid, or strategic guidance, ensuring they're well-prepared to champion their interests.

4. High-Level Diplomacy

• At the Heart of the Matter: Encourage high-ranking diplomatic attendance from border states, amplifying their perspectives and obtaining more substantial commitments.

5. Security Guardians

• Protection and Peace of Mind: Providing security assurances to border states is vital in light of the geopolitical tensions. This can help alleviate fears of reprisals from Russia and encourage a more willing participation in meetings supporting Ukraine.

6. Open Dialogue

• Transparency and Collaboration: Keep open lines of communication with all nations participating in international meetings. Regular updates and transparency during and after meetings foster trust and ensure every voice is considered.

Adopting these measures can ensure that bordering states with Russia have an equal and impactful presence at future international meetings championing Ukraine.

1. In order to avoid repetition of the omission seen at the London conference, it is crucial to prioritize Latvia, along with Estonia and Lithuania, in future invitations to international meetings supporting Ukraine, given their proximity to Russia and significant contributions to Ukraine's aid and GDP.
2. To ensure diverse viewpoints are heard in policy-and-legislation discussions and general-news reporting, leaders should actively invite and amplify the voices of smaller border states, like Latvia, in international forums.
3. To strengthen Latvia's involvement and influence in international meetings backing Ukraine, it would be beneficial to offer resources and strategic guidance, helping them navigate the complexities of politics and war-and-conflicts.
4. There is an importance for high-level representation from Latvia at international meetings, as this can help solidify its role in shaping policy and secure more substantial commitments to aid Ukraine.

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