The first climate diplomacy action plan is part of the sectoral climate and energy policy action plan KEVAD, which will be submitted next year. The action plan describes Estonia’s options and measures for meeting the climate diplomacy and green deal objectives of the European Union in order to contribute to achieving climate neutrality worldwide.
It highlights the fact that working towards climate efforts today involves almost all areas of life and requires close cooperation between various ministries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has specific ways of contributing with foreign relations, business diplomacy and development cooperation, and by presenting our own experience in moving towards green transition.
“Climate and energy are crucial issues, we are actively contributing with our expertise and experience in these areas in the European Union and globally, and would also like to increase our green competence domestically,” the foreign minister said. “Our strengths are smart technological solutions in renewable energy and the digitalisation of energy management. Estonia’s progressive digital competence also serves the aims of the green transition in business diplomacy. For example, we have set ourselves the goal of expanding opportunities for technology companies of the green cluster, which is enhanced by development cooperation,“ Liimets noted.
She added that closer regional cooperation is needed for meeting our climate diplomacy targets. “As an innovative digital country with ambitious climate targets, we have a great opportunity to lead by example here. Our cooperation on the green transition prioritises regional energy cooperation, mainly by developing digital connections and renewable energy,” she said.
The foreign minister also welcomed the adoption of the action plan for the Estonian diaspora for 2022-2025, which was made over the course of two years in close cooperation with other agencies and the Estonian community abroad.
“People of Estonian origin across the world are an integral part of the development of Estonian language, culture and economy, and Estonia’s future in general. This is why preserving and encouraging Estonian cultural identity across the world should be a priority for us because the greater the number of people who have connections with Estonia in one way or another, the greater the ambition of our plans. It contributes to the preservation of our people and economy, as well as to raising Estonia’s profile and boosting our reputation. Estonians abroad help expand Estonia’s reach,” Liimets said.
The global Estonian diaspora action plan for 2022-2025 is divided into three main lines of action, with the first focusing on boosting and preserving Estonian identity abroad. Under this line of action, we would like to create a shared information space with our expat communities and support various initiatives in communities and the study of Estonian language and learning in Estonian abroad.
The second line of action involves an increased engagement of the expat community in Estonia’s public life and development, and ensuring they are provided with excellent services. This includes boosting public diplomacy and engaging with young people living abroad.
The third line of action centres on those returning to Estonia and helping them (re)adjust to life in Estonia. Due to increased demand in recent years, various services are in development to make it more convenient to return to Estonia.
Additional information:
Communication Department
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