Riga hosts second day of major security forum "Riga Conference 2026"

On Friday, September 11, the Latvian National History Museum in Riga is hosting the second day of the "Riga Conference 2026," described by organizers as the largest foreign policy and security forum in the Nordic region. Participants are discussing a range of security-related issues, with particular focus on Russia's aggression and how it has reshaped Europe's security landscape.

The conference opened on Thursday, September 10, with remarks from President Edgars Rinkēvičs. The event is being livestreamed on Delfi as well as on the conference's own website and social media channels.

Foreign minister's address

Foreign Minister Baiba Braže said this year's conference has drawn a record number of foreign ministers, NATO and allied armed forces representatives, along with leading experts and opinion-makers. She noted that Russia is cooperating with Iran and North Korea, undermining international law and contributing to a global food and energy crisis. According to Braže, the response to these challenges must be neither fragmented nor delayed: defense capabilities must be strengthened, investment in technology increased, economic dependencies reduced, and support for Ukraine must remain firm. She stressed that Latvia is not only talking about these challenges but is also sharing its knowledge and experience with allies, and stands ready to push forward concrete actions discussed at the conference.

A long-standing tradition

Held since 2006, the Riga Conference has become one of the most important platforms for discussing security and foreign policy in Northern Europe. This year's forum is expected to bring together around 400 participants from more than 40 countries, with the event held both in person and online. It is jointly organized by the Latvian Transatlantic Organisation together with Latvia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defence.