On 1 and 2 December, Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu attends a video meeting of NATO foreign ministers, which focuses on NATO’s reflection process, Russia’s activities in NATO’s immediate neighbourhood and beyond, China’s influence on the security of the Euro-Atlantic region, and the security of the Black Sea region.
Foreign Minister Reinsalu said maintaining transatlantic unity was a priority for Estonia. “Our strength and influence are greater together, and the leadership of the United States in NATO remains crucial,” he said. “NATO is an alliance of not only collective defence but also values. All allies must contribute to collective defence as required – the cooperation of Europe and North America is extremely important.”
Reinsalu emphasised that Russia remained the main challenge for the alliance. Russia has increased its military presence in its neighbourhood and beyond and this trend is set to continue in the short- to medium-term, and continues to demand attention. We must continue to strengthen our defence and deterrence posture and build up our resilience. Coordinated strategic communication is crucial for making disinformation public and refuting it and drawing attention to Russia’s actions that are undermining the international order.”
In 2021, Estonia and Norway take over penholder duties for Afghanistan at the UN Security Council. “The support of the international community and cooperation are crucial for making progress in Afghanistan’s peace negotiations. Estonia is ready to continue participating in NATO’s Resolute Support mission until the Allies decide that the situation on the ground enables a further reduction,” Reinsalu said.
The discussion on China includes representatives of NATO’s Asian and European partners Australia, Japan, Republic of Korea and New Zealand, the foreign ministers of Finland and Sweden, and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell. The discussion aims to provide a more comprehensive picture of China as China’s actions in the cyber domain or space could have an increasing impact on us. Cooperation with partners that share our values is important for NATO in maintaining the international rules-based order.
Discussions conclude with a meeting with the foreign ministers of Ukraine and Georgia. Minister Reinsalu emphasised the Black Sea region held strategic importance for Euro-Atlantic security. In order to contribute to the security and stability of this region, we need to work closely together with our partners. NATO’s door must remain open to Georgia and Ukraine. “Estonia continues to support Georgia and Ukraine both under NATO frameworks as well as bilaterally,” Reinsalu said.
Additional information:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia
Communication Department
[email protected]
