First of all, I want to sincerely thank you, Petteri, for the very warm welcome I received yesterday. Two Prime Ministers discussing politics and world affairs in sauna shows well how close we are – both culturally, but politically.
I am very glad that I had the opportunity to make my first official visit as the Prime Minister to Finland. As friends, neighbours and allies we have excellent bilateral ties. Continued close cooperation remains a priority for me and my government too.
As border countries of the European Union and NATO, we face common challenges to our security. We have already notably raised our defence spendings, but must keep working hard to further increase the defence readiness of the whole Europe.
Similarly to Finland, Estonia remains a steadfast supporter to Ukraine. My government has pledged and will continue to provide 0.25% of our GDP as military support to Ukraine. We also have to keep working on strengthening sanctions and making Russia accountable. Eventually, it has to be Russia, not our taxpayer, who pays the bill for the damage it has caused to Ukraine and its people. Helping Ukraine with Russian frozen assets themselves, not only the profits, would be a good start for that.
Dear friends,
Finland is Estonia’s main trading partner. This means that your success is also very important to our well-being and vice versa. Our governments are working together to increase investments in defence and security and restore confidence as the basis for growth in our economy. Prosperity and security go well together.
We also discussed our common goals and cooperation in the EU. We both support stronger Single Market based on competition and equal opportunities. Together, we will continue working on reducing bureaucracy and to fully use the potential of digital transition, both in the EU and regionally.
Better connectivity in Nordic-Baltic region remains our shared goal, be it Rail Baltic, energy, or data connections. I am glad works are ongoing on the new electricity connection Estlink 3. This will further help to increase the energy security in our region and ensure affordable energy prices for our consumers and companies.
I am also thankful for our excellent cooperation on reparing the critical underwater infrastructure and developing plans for its better protection in the future.
Thank you! Paljun kiitoksia!
