Kallas and Stoltenberg discussed the NATO summit taking place in mid-June and the most important task of the alliance – strengthening collective defence and deterrence. “There is no doubt that NATO will remain a pillar of transatlantic security. I am confident that the summit will send a strong message about our unity and lasting transatlantic connection,” Kallas pointed out.
The prime minister also commended the Secretary General of NATO for leading the discussion process on the future of the alliance and for the proposals made.
Kallas also emphasised that NATO must keep pace with change and adapt to new challenges. “Be it new and groundbreaking technologies, the security implications of climate change, or cyber policy, Estonia is ready to be at the forefront of these discussions,” said Kallas.
According to the prime minister, Estonia is an active and constructive member of NATO who adheres to its obligations to promote peace and international security. “We currently have more than a hundred servicemen participating in various international missions around the world, including Afghanistan and Iraq,” Kallas said, confirming that Estonia is committed to keeping defence spending at 2 per cent of GDP.
According to Kallas, Estonia is very grateful for the presence of the allies and the Baltic Air Policing Mission, which strengthens the security of our region. “Solidarity and unity are the foundations of our alliance. We are proud of the opportunity to host allied forces in Estonia and we have set ourselves the goal of offering them the best support,” said the prime minister.
The prime minister and the secretary general also spoke about Belarus. Today, the permanent representatives of NATO member states will discuss the forced landing of the aircraft and the detention of an opposition activist.
According to Kallas, NATO must be alert to the threat posed by Russia. “The situation in Ukraine and the operations carried out on the territory of NATO allies are extremely worrying,” Kallas noted. “Therefore, NATO must continue to support the neighbouring countries of Russia,” said the prime minister, citing Ukraine and Georgia as examples of countries that are open to Russian pressure and propaganda.
Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/stenbockimaja/albums/72157719267492466
Video of the press statements by the prime minister and the Secretary General of NATO: https://www.natomultimedia.tv/portal/Asset.html?id=650832
