Rasnacs: justice will contribute to a more competitive Europe

On 20 January the Latvian Minister for Justice, Dzintars Rasnaās, presented the priorities of the Latvian Presidency of the Council of the EU to the JURI (Legal Affairs) committee of the European Parliament and answered questions of the Members of the European Parliament.

"We want to see a more competitive EU globally, and justice is a precondition for Europe's competitiveness", said Dzintars Rasnaās.

The minister is certain that the current legal initiatives in the area of justice will contribute to making the business environment more efficient and will increase competitiveness in Europe. In this regard, the Latvian Presidency will devote particular efforts to finalize the trade mark package and the work on the proposal on legalisation of access to documents.

The Presidency will also work to bring forward the legislative proposal on small claims procedure and carry out the reform of the Court of Justice of the European Union.

The Minister concluded his speech by stressing that one of the main priorities of the Latvian Presidency relevant in all areas, including in the field of justice, is closer cooperation with the Eastern Partnership countries. "EU's growth will be more successful, if countries neighbouring the EU will be democratic and respect the rule of law" said Rasnaās.