How can EU support help create an innovation ecosystem that protects not only national borders but also our shared values? The Ministry of the Interior’s "Industry Day 2026" stands as a testament that modern security is no longer defined merely by uniforms and iron fences—it is defined by smart partnerships, artificial intelligence, and a unified European family.
United in the Face of Challenges!
April 23, 2026, will be remembered by the Latvian security community as the day visionaries—government leaders, courageous entrepreneurs, and researchers—gathered in one room. As geopolitical clouds darken along the European Union’s external borders, Latvia has chosen to act rather than observe.
Opening the event, Minister of the Interior Rihards Kozlovskis emphasized that Europe’s security landscape has fundamentally shifted. The actions of aggressor states at the EU's external borders continue to threaten both the Union and its values. In an era of hybrid threats, all Member States must recognize the nature of these risks and strengthen mutual cooperation. In this context, close collaboration between state institutions, the private sector, and the research community is vital for developing practical and effective security solutions.
Innovation Against the Shadows of Hybrid Warfare!
For years, Latvia has served as Europe’s "Smart Shield." Leveraging EU co-financing, we are not only securing the border against illegal migration pressures but doing so through future-ready technologies. Industry Day 2026 buzzed with ideas regarding:
Drone and anti-drone solutions that have become our daily eyes and ears;
Artificial Intelligence to analyze vast amounts of data to bolster cybersecurity;
Smart Borders, where technology serves humanity to ensure peace across the European Union.
Gratitude to the European Union for the Opportunity to Grow!
This event would not have been possible without the financial and strategic backing of the European Union. It is immeasurably important to recognize that Latvia is not alone in its efforts. EU support for the Ministry’s Industry Day allows us to create a platform where a small Latvian startup can demonstrate its unique algorithm to the leadership of Frontex (the European Border and Coast Guard Agency).
We express our deepest gratitude to the European Union for recognizing the value of investing not just in infrastructure, but in dialogue. It is these roundtable discussions—concerning the 2028–2034 budgetary framework and the implementation of the Migration Pact—that transform funding into a tangible sense of security for every European citizen.
The Resilience Formula: Symbiosis Between Industry and State!
As noted by Elīna Egle, representative of the Federation of Security and Defence Industries of Latvia, we are building a resilience system where the security industry, critical infrastructure, and state institutions function as one. Meanwhile, Aija Kalnāja from Frontex reminded attendees that while technology today is a source of both strength and vulnerability, our collective ability to innovate remains our greatest advantage.
A Conclusion for the Future!
Industry Day 2026 demonstrated that with clear priorities, mutual trust, and the "tailwinds" provided by European Union funds, Latvia’s security system is becoming a global benchmark. We do not simply react to threats; we create a secure future.
Stronger together. Together, we are Europe!
