The foreign minister highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Estonia and the United States and discussed opportunities to deepen cooperation in areas including security and the economy. He also provided an overview of the security situation in our region and Estonia’s investments in strengthening its defence capabilities, demonstrated among other things by defence expenditure rising above 5% already this year.
“Estonia expects next week’s meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Sweden and the NATO Summit in Ankara in July to focus on how all Allies can rapidly reach this target,” Tsahkna said. According to the foreign minister, NATO remains the cornerstone of European security and Estonia greatly values the United States’ contribution to the security of our region.“At the same time, it is clear that NATO’s European Allies must assume greater responsibility for the security of the continent,” Tsahkna stated.
Discussing Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Tsahkna stressed that for Estonia and Europe it is important to achieve a just and lasting peace centred on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “Ukraine has developed into a strong military force that also possesses technology that is beneficial to NATO Allies and strengthens their security, which is why supporting Ukraine is important for both Europe and the United States themselves,” Tsahkna said.
Discussing developments in the Middle East, the foreign minister noted that Estonia is participating in discussions on diplomatic measures aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation, as well as in UK- and French-led discussions on possible military measures. “We are always ready to discuss Estonia’s possible contribution with both our European allies and the United States,” Tsahkna said.
Under Secretary DiNanno is visiting Estonia for the Lennart Meri Conference, which begins today. On the margins of the conference, the foreign minister will also meet Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže, Philippine Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Chair of the German Bundestag Defence Committee Thomas Röwekamp.
Tomorrow, 16 May, the foreign minister will speak at the Lennart Meri Conference in a panel dedicated to Ukraine entitled “Ukraine’s Strategic Place: From Frontline to Foundation”, which will also be available via livestream.
Photos from the meeting with Under Secretary DiNanno.
