The sixth annual European Union Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region Forum "Achieving e-Quality by Connecting the Region" was held in was held on 15-16 June in Jūrmala, Latvia It was one of the large-scale international events hosted during the Latvian presidency of the Council of the European Union and integrated the Presidency priorities: Competitive, Digital and Engaged Europe. It discussed issues of digital connectivity, digital equality and touch upon issues how the information and communication technology is transforming the region and changing the lives of the citizens.

The debates sought answers to questions like:

-how to build new foundation for growth in the Baltic Sea Region
-how to improve infrastructure that will deliver digital connectivity
-how to convert barriers into a drive for economic growth, jobs, better competitiveness and social inclusion
-how to empower e-citizenship and ensure equal access to technology and services
-can the EUSBSR be a more workable tool in enhancing economic and social well-being of the people by promoting digital culture?

The Forum served as a major gathering of regional experts, stakeholders, government officials, and representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGO), students and academics, and other interested parties and presented an opportunity to discuss common challenges, analyse the overall progress of the Strategy and develop recommendations for its future implementation.