In a strong signal from President Joe Biden’s new administration, Blinken said the Three Seas Initiative, which aims to boost regional infrastructure, energy and business ties, strengthens Europe.
In a video posted on the State Department’s website, Blinken said: “Like you, we want more regional economic development. Your work to build better infrastructure in the energy, transportation and digital sectors are key to that goal, and will strengthen EU integration.”
'Vital for stability'
He added: “Your efforts to strengthen energy security are vital for the stability and wellbeing of the region and all of Europe.”
Blinken said both he and Biden “deeply believe in working closely with our allies and partners because we know that there is power and strength in cooperation. That’s what the Three Seas Initiative is all about.”
The initiative brings together Poland, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.
Mike Pompeo, Blinken’s predecessor as Secretary of State, in October lauded Poland’s “strong leadership role" in the Three Seas Initiative.
(pk/gs)
Source: IAR/ US State Department
Click on the "Play" button above to listen to an audio report