In order to strengthen Latvia’s energy security and promote a more efficient clean energy transition, on Thursday, 3 October the Saeima adopted the urgent draft law approving Latvia’s participation in the International Energy Agency. 

The most significant benefits of Latvia's participation in the Agency will be greater national security, including the provision of energy resources in the event of a crisis, the opportunity to participate in decision-making and the defence of energy policy interests not only together with the Member States of the European Union, but also with countries with a global impact on energy policy, representatives of the Ministry of Climate and Energy stressed at the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Committee responsible for the advancement of the draft law. The Agency’s Member States also have access to a strong analysis and planning team providing forecasts and data in all energy sectors, as well as recommendations, and to a database of policies and applied measures. 

The mission of the International Energy Agency, in cooperation with governments and businesses, is to develop a secure and sustainable energy future. There are currently 31 Member States, including Estonia and Lithuania. The Agency's member states cover 80 percent of the world's energy consumption, mentions the explanatory note to the draft law. 

Latvia received an invitation to join the International Energy Agency in autumn 2022, and currently we are one of the countries that has fulfilled the preconditions for joining the Agency in the fastest way, representatives of the Ministry of Climate and Energy previously explained to MPs. 

Saeima Press Service