At a video meeting of ministers for European affairs today 22 April, Estonia was represented by the Foreign Ministry’s Undersecretary for European Affairs Märt Volmer, who stressed that Estonia valued the unity and solidarity of the EU, continued information exchange between member states and the coordination of measures.
The video conference was held to discuss the efficiency, extent and duration of measures in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. “Emergency measures are justified in the current situation but they must be proportional, temporary and in line with the rule of law,” Volmer said.
“When it comes to economic recovery measures, the exit strategy should be based on the existing foundation,” Volmer added. “However, it is clear that these new circumstances call for a more ambitious MFF than was on the table during pre-crisis times. States should encourage forward-looking investments, particularly those that contribute to the EU’s digital transformation and achieving our climate goals.”
The meeting also covered the expansion of hybrid threats, such as cyberattacks and disinformation. Undersecretary Volmer called for a more widespread implementation of digital solutions at European Union level – they have proved particularly useful in the current crisis. “It is important to continue financing cybersecurity and conduct regular hybrid exercises during and after the crisis,” Volmer added.
Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmMKksbP
Additional information:
Pia Kuusik
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Media Adviser
Communication Department
+372 637 7628; +372 5635 7866
www.vm.ee
