Estonian Consulate General in St. Petersburg :: News

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet: We Must Continue to Put Pressure on Belarusian Authorities Until State Stops Restricting Human Rights and Civil Freedoms

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:20:17 GMT

No. 23-E

While meeting with Belarusian opposition leader Ales Michalevic in Tallinn today, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet noted that the European Union must continue its double-sided policy towards Belarus, which places restrictive sanctions in order to influence the regime while also supporting the democratic forces in Belarus.

The foreign minister stated that the European Union would continue to put pressure on the central authorities in Belarus so that restrictions on human rights and civil freedoms in the country would come to an end. “The unconditional release and rehabilitation of political prisoners in Belarus is still a prerequisite for resuming a dialogue with the European Union,” he said. Paet added that at the upcoming meeting of the European Union foreign ministers in February, new conclusions would be taken regarding harsher sanctions against Belarus.

Foreign Minister Paet also noted that it is still important to support civil society, free media, and the opposition in Belarus. Progress should also be made on preparations for a visa facilitation and readmission agreement. “It is also Estonia's goal to continue supporting civil society in Belarus in any way possible, plus we would like to increase the support given to civil society within the framework of development co-operation,” he said.

Estonia supports the work of the Belarusian European Humanitarian University in Vilnius. We also support the civil society of Belarus through the Centre of Eastern Partnership in Tallinn. “We welcome Belarusians to participate in the courses offered by the Eastern Partnership Centre and give out scholarships for university students from Belarus to study in Estonia. We also have plans this year to provide training to representatives of Belarusian civil society in the areas of e-government, involvement, and cyber security,” said Paet.

Photo from the meeting: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry/6801142841/in/pho...

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First Estonian Ambassador to Oman Presents Credentials

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:19:50 GMT

On Sunday, 29 January, the first Estonian Ambassador to Oman Lauri Bambus presented his credentials to Sultan of Oman Qaboos bin Said. The ambassador resides in Tallinn.

At the credentials presentation ceremony held at Hisn Ash'shumookhi Castle in Nizwa, Estonian Ambassador Lauri Bambus and Sultan of Oman Qaboos bin Said confirmed that there are excellent opportunities to intensify bilateral relations. Ambassador Bambus stated that Estonia would like to advance economic and cultural ties with Oman and conclude agreements that would facilitate bilateral co-operation. “In order to intensify business contacts, we would definitely like to appoint an Estonian honorary consul in Oman,” he added.

On the topic of economic co-operation, reciprocal interest was expressed in the information and communications technology sector and in the energy sector. Ambassador Bambus said that Estonia and Oman's co-operation in the IT sector is off to a successful start. “I am please to say that Estonia's biggest software development company AS Webmedia is already active in Oman,” Bambus added.

During meetings at the Foreign Ministry of Oman prior to the presentation of credentials, topics relevant to the European Union and the Persian Gulf countries were discussed. There is interest in advancing co-operation in international organisations as well. Bambus expressed hope that Oman would soon name an ambassador to Estonia, which would help even more to strengthen bilateral relations.

Lauri Bambus was born in 1969 in Valga. He has graduated from Tartu University twice – from the philosophy department with honours in 1993 and from the law department in 2004. He has furthered his studies at the University of Turku in the field of international law and at the Diplomatic Academy in Vienna. Lauri Bambus has worked at the Foreign Ministry since 1995, when he started working in the consular department. He has worked at the Estonian embassies in Warsaw and Brussels and as the director of the Schengen division in the Ministry's consular department. From 2005-2007 Lauri Bambus was the consul general at the Estonian Consulate General in St. Petersburg, and following that he was the director general of the Foreign Ministry's consular department until 2010. Currently Bambus is the undersecretary for legal and consular affairs.

Lauri Bambus speaks English, Russian, Polish, and French.

New European Union Budget Must Raise EU’s Competitiveness

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:55:37 GMT

No. 20-E

At today’s European Union General Affairs Council in Brussels, the principles for the next European Union financial framework (2014-2020) were discussed. The ministers of foreign and European affairs agreed that the new budget must contribute to economic growth and competitiveness.

Estonian Ambassador to the European Union Matti Maasikas, who represented Estonia at the council meeting, said that Estonia sees the European Union budget first and foremost as a budget for investments, since administrative costs make up only a small proportion of it. “This is why we must find a balance between the member states’ need to economise and the European Union’s financial needs for bringing its policies to life,” said Maasikas. The ambassador added that the main goal of the next EU financial framework should be to increase the EU’s competitiveness in order to support the initiatives and goals of the Europe 2020 (economic growth and employment) strategy.

Estonia feels that with the new financial framework we must take into account both the European Union’s need to invest and each member state’s ability to use funds economically. Matti Maasikas stated that this would mean two-way solidarity in the European Union, where recognition is given to those who manage to fulfil their responsibilities.

Estonia considers the European Commission’s proposal regarding the general size of the budget to be reasonable and a good basis for further negotiations. However, Estonia also feels that it would be rational to reach a common understanding regarding the effects and expected benefits of carrying out the EU’s main policies before agreeing on the sum for the budget.

In the ongoing negotiation process taking place during Denmark’s presidency, raising the competitiveness of the European Union is an important goal for all member states. Estonia emphasises this in regards to the role of the two biggest EU policies, the EU cohesion policy and the common agricultural policy. We feel it is important to have a strong cohesion policy throughout the whole European Union that invests in employment and competitiveness. The common agricultural policy would benefit from direct supports to countries becoming equalised very soon, as this would give member states equal opportunities on the EU common market.

In addition, we must invest in research and development activity and innovation so that the European Union can preserve its role in a global context. However, in order to benefit from all these investments we must ensure a better cross-border framework, using among other resources the European Commission’s proposed Connecting Europe Facility.

The ministers will discuss the budget framework at the first four out of the remaining five General Affairs Councils taking place within the first half of this year.

Additional information:
Helen Ennok, press spokesperson, Estonian Permanent Representation to the EU
+32 474 98 16 57

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Estonia Becomes Vice President of Executive Board of UN Women

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:41:30 GMT

Nr 19-E

Estonia was chosen to be the vice president of the UN Entity for Gender Equality (UN Women) for the year 2012.

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet stated that promoting and protecting human rights is an important part of Estonia’s foreign policy. “Internationally we have concentrated our attention specifically on protecting the rights of women and children as well as the rights of indigenous peoples,” said Paet.

UN Women addresses women’s rights and equality issues all over the world and implements concrete programmes for improving the situation of women in developing countries. “Estonia feels it is important to continue working so that the agency can fulfil all the expectations that have been placed on it. It is essential to support the activities of UN Women, therefore we have allocated 25 000 euros to support the agency in 2012,” he added.

Paet also noted that improving the situation of women in many countries cannot fall solely on the shoulders of the agency. “Therefore we hope that UN Women can create a greater focus on gender equality and women’s rights in the UN’s activities in general,” he stated.

UN Women was created in 2011 and there are 41 countries in the agency’s executive board. In 2012 the president of the UN Women executive board is South Korea and the vice presidents are Spain, Estonia, Nigeria, and Peru. Executive board meetings take place three times a year.

Finnish President Tarja Halonen to Come to Estonia for Working Visit

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:49:24 GMT

No. 6-TT

Finnish President Tarja Halonen will be in Estonia on Monday, 30 January. Tarja Halonen, who is nearing the end of her term as head of state, will meet with President Toomas Hendrik Ilves, who will host a lunch in her honour. The Finnish president also has plans to meet with Riigikogu Speaker Ene Ergma.

Topics to be discussed at the meetings are Estonia-Finland bilateral relations and European Union subjects such as the situation in the euro zone, matters related to economic and financial policy, and the EU’s next financial perspective. Regional co-operation, including co-operation in the energy and transport sectors and in the Baltic Sea region in general, will also be discussed. International topics will include developments in the Middle East and Northern Africa.

Attention journalists interested in covering the visit!

Journalists, photographers and camera operators interested in covering the visit should be accredited no later than Friday, 27 January at 15.00. Please write to centre@mfa.ee or call the Foreign Ministry public diplomacy department at 637 7630.

Monday, 30 January

11.30 The President of the Republic of Estonia welcomes Finnish President Tarja Halonen. An honour guard of the Estonian Defence Forces will be lined up in Kadriorg. Official photo of the presidents, signing of the guestbook.

(Kadriorg, A. Weizenbergi 39)

TV, photo – first moments of the event. We ask that you arrive no later than 11.15

12.00 Joint press conference of the presidents of Estonia and Finland

(A. Weizenbergi 39)

(Language: English)

We ask that you arrive no later than 11.45

14.10 Meeting with Riigikogu Speaker Ene Ergma

(Lossi plats 1A)

TV, photo – first moments of the event. We ask that you arrive no later than 13.55

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Estonia and Indonesia Consider Fight against Piracy and Cyber Security Co-operation to Be Important

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:16:26 GMT

No. 18-E

In a meeting in Jakarta with Indonesian Minister of Defence Purnomo Yusgiantoro, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet talked about cyber security and cyber protection as well as opportunities for Estonian companies to participate in Indonesia’s defence-related procurements. “We are prepared to share Estonia’s national cyber security strategy and how things work in our country with Indonesia,” he added. Paet stated that in addition to developing its own national cyber security, Estonia also works actively to develop cyber security in NATO, as the NATO Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence is located in Tallinn.

The Estonian foreign minister also spoke with the Indonesian minister of defence about the fight against piracy. “In the fight against piracy, information exchange and co-ordination among nations and various international organisations is essential,” Paet said. He added that Estonia participates in the European Union military mission ATALANTA with a vessel protection unit. “Indonesia’s activities over the last ten years in making the Strait of Malacca safer deserve recognition,” he added.

Paet and the defence minister of Indonesia also discussed the security situation in the Pacific Ocean region and in Southeast Asia.

Paet stated that there are many companies in Estonia that would be interested in working together with Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence and army.

At his meeting with Minister of Communication and Informatics Tifatul Sembiring, Paet recognised Indonesia for belonging to the leading group of Open Government Partnership (OGP). “Open Government Partnership is an innovative idea for spreading the principles of democracy to those countries that are not led by democratic governments. Hopefully it will become an effective means for spreading the principles of rule of law,” Paet stated. “Estonia has used technological solutions to ensure the openness of government and the involvement of citizens, for example through internet banking, a unified state internet portal, electronic ID cards, and e-voting,” he added. Paet also recommended that Indonesia join the Council of Europe’s Convention on Cybercrime, which is the only international agreement in this area and is not restricted only to European countries.

During a meeting with Indonesian Minister of Health Endang Rahayu Sedyaningsih, Paet spoke about Estonia’s e-Health system, which helps to improve public services. “We are prepared to share our experiences in this area and we welcome Indonesian experts to Estonia to learn more about the system,” he stated.

Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry/

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Estonia and Finland Intensifying Economic Ties With Indonesia Together

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:24:43 GMT

No. 17-E

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet, who is currently in Indonesia together with Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade Alexander Stubb and an Estonian and Finnish business delegation, said at the Estonia-Finland-Indonesia business seminar in Jakarta today that closer economic ties between the countries would lead to intensified political communication as well as technological progress in the world. “Estonia is interested in strengthening economic ties and trade relations with Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s biggest economy and a country with a very dynamic economic environment,” he noted.

Foreign Minister Paet said that the Estonian entrepreneurs participating in the Indonesia visit offer the top solutions and products in their respective fields. “We hope that Indonesian entrepreneurs will be interested in working together,” he said.

The following Estonian businesses are represented in Indonesia with Foreign Minister Paet: CF&S Estonia Ltd, which works in logistics; ChemiPharm Ltd, which produces disinfectant products for medical establishments; Defendec, which is involved with high-tech monitoring equipment (for border control, for example); Enefit/Eesti Energia AS, which is an international energy company; Enterprise Estonia; ESC Global Security, which is involved in protecting maritime vessels; Horizon Pulp and Paper, which produces paper products and packaging; Port of Tallinn; Real Systems, which developed professional information systems and software solutions; and Repo Vabrikud, which produces part for the furniture industry.

Paet also called on Indonesian companies to invest in Estonia. “Estonia has an open economy and many information technology solutions that simplify business and transactions,” he added.

At his meeting in Jakarta with Minister of Trade Gita Wirjawan and Deputy Minister of Trade Rizal Affandi Lukman, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said that Estonia is interested in concluding an agreement for economic co-operation, an agreement for the protection of investments, and an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation with Indonesia and also intensifying economic relations. “Although trade between Estonia and Indonesia has increased by 26% over the past 5 years and in 2010 totalled 9.2 million euros, there is potential for great increases in trade, and we hope that the contacts created during this visit between Estonian and Indonesian entrepreneurs will help to strengthen ties,” he said.

Over 200 people participated in the Estonia-Finland-Indonesia business seminar today.

Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry/

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
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Estonian and Finnish Ministers and Entrepreneurs on Joint Visit to Indonesia

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:07:38 GMT

No. 16-E

At his meeting in Jakarta with Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty M. Natalegawa, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet stated that Estonia is interested in concluding an agreement for economic co-operation, an agreement for the protection of investments, and an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation.

The Estonian foreign minister is in Indonesia for a visit together with Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade Alexander Stubb and an Estonian and Finnish business delegation.

During their meeting, Estonian Foreign Minister Paet and Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty M. Natalegawa spoke about strengthening economic ties and trade relations between Estonia and Indonesia and reciprocal investments. “We hope that the contacts created during this visit between the businesses of Estonia and Indonesia, a country with nearly 260 million residents, will help to strengthen contacts, and that opportunities will be found to begin activities in each other’s countries,” said Paet. “Indonesian entrepreneurs may be interested in Estonia’s convenient location and its well-developed infrastructure for transporting goods to the Baltic Sea region and to Russia,” he added.

Foreign Minister Paet stated that Indonesia is an attractive travel destination for Estonians and therefore Estonia would be interested in appointing two honorary consuls in the near future – one in Jakarta and one on the island of Bali. “Estonia also plans to appoint a non-resident ambassador to Indonesia this year,” he stated.

During Foreign Minister Paet’s meeting with the foreign minister of Indonesia, they also discussed developments in relations between the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). “ASEAN is the second most-integrated regional organisation in the world after the European Union and is therefore a natural partner of the European Union. Estonia is in favour of trade with as few restrictions as possible between the EU and ASEAN,” said Paet. “Estonia supports the continuation of ASEAN’s integration, so that the ASEAN economic union to be created in 2015 will be an economic region with a unified market and production capabilities,” he added. Paet also recognised the activities of Indonesia as the chairman of ASEAN in 2011.

During their meeting minister Paet and Natalagewa also talked about the situations in Myanmar and in North Korea.

From 24-26 January, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet is on a joint visit to Indonesia with Finnish Minister of European Affairs and Foreign Trade Alexander Stubb. The ministers will be accompanied by a 36-member delegation of Estonian and Finnish entrepreneurs. In Jakarta ministers Paet and Stubb will meet with Minister of Economic Affairs Hatta Rajasa, Minister of Trade Gita Wirjawani, Minister of Communication and Informatics Tifatul Sembiring, Minister of Health Endang Rahayu Sedyaningsih, and Minister of Defence Purnomo Yusgiantoro. Both ministers will also participate in an Estonia-Finland-Indonesia business seminar.

Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry/

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Estonia Wants For Serbia to Receive EU Candidate Country Status in February

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:13:23 GMT

No. 15-E

At today’s European Union Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, Serbia receiving EU candidate country status was discussed, it was decided to implement additional sanctions against Iran, the status of the Middle East peace process was addressed, and the situations in Syria, Burma/Myanmar, and Belarus were discussed.

Estonian Ambassador to the EU Matti Maasikas, who represented Estonia at the council, stated that progress in European Union enlargement depends on all the parties involved making an effort and adhering to the requirements they have agreed to fulfil. “We value Serbia’s success in carrying out reforms and feel that it is time for the European Union to take a step and grant candidate country status to Serbia at the General Affairs Council in February. By doing so, we would recognise Serbia’s progress on its path to Europe, plus the timing takes into consideration the European-mindedness of Serbia’s current government,” Maasikas explained. “However, repairing relations with Kosovo is still a prerequisite—we expect the European Union-mediated dialogue between the two countries to continue,” he added.

In relation to the Middle East peace process, Estonia supports sending a strong message to both sides. Israel and Palestine must both fulfil the obligations they have accepted and continue with negotiations in order to achieve a solution that corresponds to the schedule established by the Diplomatic Quartet. Estonia recognises the efforts of Jordan in promoting the negotiations between Israel and Palestine and feels that it is necessary for the European Union to strongly support Jordan as a mediator.

While discussing Syria it was stated that the situation there is still worrisome. Possibilities for the European Union to change the situation were discussed. The killings must end and humanitarian aid must become more accessible. The European Union condemns Bashar al-Assad’s regime and supports the role of the Arab League in resolving the crisis. The European Union must also continue to apply pressure to Syria.

In contrast, developments in Burma/Myanmar have actually been for the better. The opposition party is being allowed to participate in elections and some political prisoners have been freed. Therefore at today’s European Union Foreign Affairs Council, the EU decided to lessen restrictive measures and be ready to review sanctions as well.

The complicated political and human rights situation in Belarus was also briefly addressed. “The European Union must continue its double-sided policy, which places restrictive sanctions in order to influence the regime while also supporting the democratic forces in Belarus,” stated Matti Maasikas. Belarus is a concern not only the European Union but also for our eastern neighbours, which is why the EU should also address this situation together with its Eastern Partners. An official discussion on Belarus will take place at the next session of the Foreign Affairs Council.

Additional information:
Helen Ennok, press spokesperson, Estonia’s Permanent Representation to the EU
+32 474 98 16 57

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
pressitalitus@mfa.ee
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Estonia Becomes Vice President of UNICEF Executive Board

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:11:22 GMT

No. 14-E

Last week Estonia was chosen to be the vice president of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) for the year 2012.

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet stated that Estonia feels it is important to actively participate in shaping international humanitarian and development co-operation policy. “As the vice president of UNICEF we can increase our visibility in the international arena and address issues that are important to Estonia, such as improving the situation of children and protecting their rights,” he said.

The foreign minister noted that in 2011 Estonia supported UNICEF’s work helping children in various parts of the world with a total of 272 000 euros. “We have supported the UN Girls’ Education Initiative and allocated money to alleviate the suffering of children in Afghanistan, Côte d'Ivoire, Yemen, and Somalia. For example, in Afghanistan we helped to ensure that Afghan children’s school year could continue uninterrupted during the winter months,” he stated. The foreign minister added that Estonia will continue to support UNICEF this year.

The goal of the UNICEF Executive Board is to monitor situations and make decisions so that the organisation could function as efficiently as possible and the needs and interests of the countries receiving aid would be protected.

In 2012 the president of the UNICEF Executive Board will be Antigua and Barbuda, and the vice presidents in addition to Estonia are Finland, Kenya, and Kazakhstan. There are 36 countries on the UNICEF Executive Board. The board holds sessions three times a year, with this year’s first session taking place from 7-10 February. The other sessions will be held in June and September.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
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Foreign Minister Urmas Paet and Finnish Minister of European Affairs and Foreign Trade Alexander Stubb Going to Indonesia on a Joint Visit

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:52:29 GMT

No. 13-E

From 24-26 January, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet will be on a joint visit to Indonesia with Finnish Minister of European Affairs and Foreign Trade Alexander Stubb. The ministers will be accompanied by a 36-member delegation of Estonian and Finnish entrepreneurs.

Foreign Minister Paet stated that this is Estonia’s first high-level visit to Indonesia. “The goal of the visit is to promote the business opportunities of Estonian entrepreneurs, create ties with Indonesia, which has the biggest economy in south-eastern Asia and is a member of the G-20, and also enliven Estonia’s foreign policy towards South-East Asia,” he said. “The joint visit will also definitely help to strengthen the unified image of the European Union countries of the Baltic Sea region,” he added.

Within the framework of the visit there are meetings scheduled with Foreign Minister of Indonesia Marty Natalegawa, Minister of Economic Affairs Hatta Rajasa, Minister of Trade Gita Wirjawani, Minister of Communication and Informatics Tifatul Sembiring, Minister of Health Endang Rahayu Sedyaningsih, and Minister of Defence Purnomo Yusgiantoro.

The delegation of Estonian entrepreneurs includes representatives of companies that work in logistics, chemical production, information technology, software development, security services, and paper and wood panel production.

Both ministers will also participate in an Estonia-Finland-Indonesia business seminar.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE

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Foreign Ministry notice

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:12:03 GMT

No. 12-E

Last night a tour bus travelling from Luxor to Hurghada and carrying 19 Estonian citizens was detained in Egypt. The tour bus containing Estonian citizens was part of a convoy of five tour buses that was detained by local residents for a few hours as a result of the residents’ demands regarding their living conditions.

Foreign Ministry representatives were in constant contact with the Estonian citizens who were on the bus. The local police and other authorities worked to resolve the situation. Just before midnight the bus was able to resume the trip and the 19 Estonian citizens arrived in Hurghada at 4 am.

This morning the consul from the Estonian Embassy in Cairo will travel to Hurghada to learn details about the circumstances of last night’s incident.

The Foreign Ministry also changed its travel advisories today to recommend that people visiting Egypt not travel between cities.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
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Foreign Minister Urmas Paet: Long-Term Continuation of NATO Air Policing Mission is Vitally Important to Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:34:37 GMT

No. 11-E

At his meeting in Tallinn today with NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet emphasised that the long-term continuation of the NATO air policing mission is vitally important to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. “Air policing is a good example of the allies’ solidarity and joint contribution to ensuring security,” said Paet. The NATO mission that guards the airspace of the Baltic states is also one of the best examples of the principle of smart defence.

According to Foreign Minister Paet, the discussions that take place every few years over the necessity of the mission and whether to extend it are a waste of both our and our allies’ time and human resources. “Therefore we feel that a decision regarding the long-term continuation of the air policing mission should be made by the Chicago summit at the latest,” he said.

Paet said that taking into account the context of declining defence spending and the USA’s changing security strategy, it is important that at the Chicago summit the allied countries confirm their dedication to guaranteeing common security within the framework of trans-atlantic relations. “It is essential to increase NATO’s trainings and visibility,” Paet added. Other important topics for Estonia at the springtime NATO summit are strengthening cyber security in NATO and continuing with the open-door policy.

During their meeting, the Estonian foreign minister and the NATO secretary general also addressed the importance of partnership relations. “NATO is not a closed alliance, but rather has created close contacts with countries that share the alliance’s values and goals. Co-operation with NATO gives our partners an opportunity to make military and financial contributions to NATO-led missions,” Paet said, mentioning Georgia’s strong contribution to the NATO mission in Afghanistan as an example. He added that this is why it is important to use the Chicago summit framework as an opportunity to give greater recognition to our partners and to further develop partnership relations.

Paet and Rasmussen emphasised that the springtime NATO summit must also give a clear message to Afghanistan regarding the continuation of support after the year 2014. “At the same time, the Afghan government must also demonstrate its dedication to building up the country through concrete activities. Prerequisites for stabilising the situation in Afghanistan are a realistic view of the country’s future and the government’s efforts to earn the trust of the people,” Paet asserted. “After the end of the military phase of the mission, Estonia will likely continue its military contribution with staff officers and mentors. Estonia will also continue its development aid activities. In terms of development co-operation, Afghanistan is a long-term priority for Estonia,” he added.

Photos from the meeting: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry

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Estonia Wants Growth in Competitiveness of Baltic Sea Region

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:45:07 GMT

No. 10-E

At the conference on the Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region taking place at Tallinn University today, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet noted that we must achieve growth in the visibility and competitiveness of the Baltic Sea region so that people, goods, services, capital, and knowledge could move about the Baltic Sea region without any obstacles.

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet emphasised that Estonia’s co-operation with the Nordic and Baltic countries is already very close. “For example, in the first 11 months of 2011, 12% of Estonia’s exports went to Baltic countries and 37% to Nordic countries, and exports to the Baltic Sea region as a whole, including Russia, Norway and Iceland, totalled 66%. In terms of imports the regional ties are even stronger, with 71% of imports coming from countries in the Baltic Sea region,” he said. The foreign minister added that a large portion of foreign investments made in Estonia also originate from the countries in our region. “As of the summer of last year, nearly 73% of all Estonia’s foreign investments came from the Baltic Sea region. For example, Sweden has invested 4.3 billion euros in Estonia and Finland has invested 3.2 billion,” he noted. A large part of Estonia’s investments also go to countries in the Baltic Sea region. As of last summer, Estonia had invested 1.5 billion euros in Lithuania and 1.2 billion in Latvia.

The foreign minister stated that the most important thing for Estonia in the context of the Baltic Sea Region Strategy is creating new transport links along the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, establishing a new energy network, promoting innovation and research-related co-operation, and removing obstacles from the internal market.

The conference taking place at Tallinn University is entitled “Partnership of the state, universities, and local governments in involving Estonia more effectively in the European Union Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region”, and its goal is to discuss developing the partnership between state institutions, universities, and local governments, which is needed for them to become involved in the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region.

Additional information about the conference: http://www.tlu.ee/?CatID=2470&LangID=1

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
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NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen to Visit Estonia

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:06:23 GMT

No. 5-TT

NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen will be in Estonia for a working visit from 19-20 January.

He has meetings scheduled with President Toomas Hendrik Ilves, Prime Minister Andrus Ansip, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet, and Minister of Defence Mart Laar.

Topics to be discussed during the visit are preparations for the NATO summit in Chicago, which will include discussion about the NATO air policing mission in the Baltic states, developments in the NATO Cyber Defence Centre, NATO’s activities in Afghanistan, and NATO-Russia relations.

The NATO secretary general will give a lecture in English at Tallinn University entitled “NATO’s Baltic Allies: Punching Above Their Weight”. The lecture will be preceded by an introduction by Foreign Minister Urmas Paet.

During his visit, Anders Fogh Rasmussen will also visit the NATO Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence.

Attention journalists interested in covering the visit!

Journalists, photographers and camera operators interested in covering the visit should be accredited no later than Wednesday, 18 January at 14.00. Please contact the Foreign Ministry press centre at centre@mfa.ee or by phone at +372 637 7630. Press cards can be picked up starting at 15.00 on 18 January and on 19 January from the desk at Foreign Ministry guest entrance located at Lauteri 2.

Please specify exactly which event(s) you would like to cover!

Thursday, 19 January

16.10 Anders Fogh Rasmussen’s lecture at Tallinn University
(Uus-Sadama 5, Tallinna auditorium, M218)
We ask that you arrive no later than 15.50
We ask that journalists register for the lecture at Tallinn University no later than 16.00 on 17 January at the email address info@eata.ee (include your name and identification code). Latecomers will not be allowed into the auditorium. Please remember to bring along a photo ID.

17.20 Meeting with Foreign Minister Urmas Paet
(Foreign Ministry, Islandi väljak 1, guest entrance at Lauteri 2)
TV, photo – first moments of the event. We ask that you arrive no later than 17.05

Friday, 20 January

09.00 Meeting with President Toomas Hendrik Ilves
(A. Weizenbergi 39)
TV, photo – first moments of the event. We ask that you arrive no later than 08.45

PRESS CENTRE
+372 637 7630
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Foreign Minister Urmas Paet: Estonia’s Economic Interests a Key Aspect of Opening New Foreign Representations

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:10:51 GMT

No. 9-E

Today Foreign Minister Urmas Paet met with representatives of Enterprise Estonia, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Estonian Employers’ Confederation to discuss the Foreign Ministry’s co-operation with business organisations to protect the interests of Estonian entrepreneurs abroad.

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet stated that Estonia’s foreign representations have the important task of supporting Estonian companies, protecting their interests, and providing them with support to resolve problems abroad. The Foreign Ministry also takes economic interests into consideration when opening new foreign representations. “In 2011 we opened a consulate general in Shanghai and an embassy in Astana. This year a representation will start working in India,” he said.

During the meeting, Foreign Minister Paet noted that co-operation between the Foreign Ministry and business organisations has been good and reciprocally supportive. “Many of our endeavours have been given added value through close co-operation with Enterprise Estonia, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Employers’ Confederation. It is essential for this good co-operation and information exchange to continue,” he added.

Paet also highlighted the smooth co-operation between the Foreign Ministry and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in organising business visits and in receiving foreign business delegations in Estonia. “Next week is the joint visit of the Estonian and Finnish ministers to Indonesia, where they will be accompanied by business delegations from both countries,” said the foreign minister.

One tradition that has developed is the organising of seminars introducing various target markets in co-operation with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Another event that has won the approval of entrepreneurs is “Morning Coffee with the Ambassador”, during which our ambassadors and economic diplomats meet with entrepreneurs and share their experiences regarding the business and economic climate in a particular country.

The foreign minister stated that meetings with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Employers’ Confederation are also very useful for ambassadors and economic diplomats who are about to assume a post in a foreign country.

Enterprise Estonia is also a vital partner of ours. “We are planning joint activities with Enterprise Estonia that we will also carry out together. Representatives of Enterprise Estonia also receive regular information regarding the embassies’ foreign economic relations and what is going on in other countries’ economies,” Paet noted. In addition to practical co-operation, our diplomats also share a working space with Enterprise Estonia representatives in Kiev and Shanghai, among other places.

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Foreign Minister Urmas Paet: Estonia Contributes to European Union’s Effective Humanitarian Aid Policy

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 10:03:49 GMT

No. 8-E

At his meeting today with European Union Commissioner for International Co-operation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response Kristalina Georgieva, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said that for Estonia, offering humanitarian aid is a natural part of the country’s foreign policy. “Our goal is to increase Estonia’s capabilities and contributions in reacting to global humanitarian crises. We will also continue to participate in shaping international humanitarian aid policies,” said Paet.

The foreign minister stated that in recent years Estonia has contributed to the discussion on international humanitarian aid policies as a member of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and as co-chairman of Good Humanitarian Donorship with Ireland.

Estonia also has rescue capabilities that meet global standards in the form of its Disaster Relief Team. “The Estonian Disaster Relief Team belongs to the International Humanitarian Partnership network along with the Nordic countries, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Germany, and our experts have participated in missions in Cyprus, Ukraine, Moldova, Pakistan, and Haiti,” said Paet.

Foreign Minister Paet also noted that the amount of humanitarian aid given by Estonia has increased from year to year. “While in 2005 our humanitarian aid budget totalled 96 000 euros, this year we have allocated 1.1 million euros for humanitarian aid,” he said. Paet added that the aid donated by Estonia goes to help address the aftermath of natural disasters and to help alleviate the situation in Sub-Saharan African countries and places suffering from long-term crises such as Yemen, Afghanistan, Somalia, and South Sudan. Estonia donates the majority of its humanitarian aid through UN aid organisations and International Red Cross organisations.

During their meeting, Paet and Georgieva also spoke about opportunities to make the humanitarian aid given by the European Union more effective. “Estonia supports increasing the financial resources intended for responding to disasters and humanitarian crises in the next European Union budget. We also support activities that strengthen developing countries’ ability to avoid and prevent crises,” said Paet. “Estonia, like the European Union, is also giving more attention to disaster readiness in developing countries. For out part, we have provided training primarily to the Eastern Partnership countries,” he added.

According to Paet, Estonia feels it is necessary to support developing countries also after the humanitarian aid phase has ended so that the country can transition to peace-keeping and building up the state. “For this it is necessary to have closer co-operation between the donors of humanitarian aid and development aid,” Paet noted. The foreign minister added that Estonia makes an effort to keep the transition aspect in mind while making its own humanitarian aid donations. “In the case of Afghanistan, in addition to giving humanitarian aid we have also carried out many development projects, particularly in the education and health care sectors,” he said.

Paet and Georgieva also spoke about the UN’s role in co-ordinating humanitarian aid. Paet said that Estonia supports the leadership role of the UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in co-ordinating humanitarian aid. “However, OCHA must also take steps to increase its capabilities so that we can react to crises more efficiently and provide aid in every situation without any delay,” he asserted.

Photos from the meeting: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry

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Foreign Minister Urmas Paet Discussed Development of Estonia-Tajikistan Relations with Tajikistani President Emomali Rahmon

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:11:15 GMT

No. 7-E

Yesterday in Dushanbe during his meeting with President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said that the successful and stable development of the Central Asian countries is in the interest of both Estonia and the European Union’s security and well-being.

At the meeting, the foreign minister expressed satisfaction over the fact that Tajikistan’s relations with the European Union have developed rapidly after the Partnership and Co-operation Agreement came into effect in 2010. “The goal is to facilitate development and establish good administrative practice in Tajikistan. Other goals include the development of agriculture, land reform, public sector reform and economic reforms, development of infrastructure, energy efficiency, and increasing the capabilities of civil society,” he added.

Paet also noted during the meeting that in general there are many opportunities for co-operation between the European Union and Central Asia. “For example, we feel it is important to intensify economic and trade relations and engage in greater co-operation in the transport and energy sectors,” he stated. “Estonia supports implementing the European Union’s Central Asia Strategy,” he added.

Tajikistani President Rahmon stated that Tajikistan is interested in Estonia’s experiences with reforming its society. Paet stated that Estonia is also ready to share its experiences and support Tajikistan on its road to the World Trade Organisation (WTO). “We hope that Tajikistan’s negotiations for joining the WTO will come to a close by the end of this year,” he added.

The Estonian foreign minister added that hopefully the new transport and energy connections between Tajikistan and Afghanistan will be completed soon, as they would create more opportunities for economic development. Paet stated that regional co-operation for preventing cross-border crime, fighting against the narcotics trade, and strengthening the border police are important for the stabilisation of Afghanistan.

Photos from the meeting: www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry/

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Foreign Minister Urmas Paet: Tajikistan Has Vital Role in Improving Situation in Afghanistan

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 09:45:54 GMT

No. 6-E

At his meeting today in Dushanbe, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet spoke with Foreign Minister of Tajikistan Hamrokhon Zarif about developments in Central Asia and especially those related to Afghanistan. “The support of Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries and other regions is very important for the stabilisation of the situation in Afghanistan,” said Paet. “We consider widespread regional co-operation essential for preventing cross-border crime, fighting against the narcotics trade, and strengthening the border police, as well as for deepening economic integration in the region,” Paet stated. He added that Estonia values Tajikistan’s logistical support for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

At today’s meeting Foreign Minister Paet also spoke about co-operation opportunities between Estonia and Tajikistan and enlivening economic relations. “Concluding various agreements will help to facilitate and develop economic relations,” said Paet. “There are plans to sign an agreement for the protection of investments as well as an agreement for the avoidance of double taxation,” he added.

Paet stated that Estonia is prepared to share its experiences with developing e-state solutions with Tajikistan. “E-state solutions make governing more effective and transparent and services for citizens more accessible, and would thereby help the development of society in Tajikistan,” Paet noted. “We are prepared to work with Tajikistan by both advising and helping to work out technical solutions,” he said. Paet added that Estonian companies are also interested in co-operating with the Tajikistan border guard to build up an electronic border monitoring system.

Paet confirmed at the meeting that Estonia supports the continuation of the European Union development co-operation projects in Tajikistan. “In addition, within the framework of bilateral development co-operation we can offer Tajikistani diplomats the opportunity to study in a one-year programme at the Estonian School of Diplomacy,” he noted.

Foreign Minister Paet said at the meeting that Estonia also supports implementing the European Union’s Central Asia Strategy. “Co-operation opportunities abound between the European Union and Central Asia, for example through intensifying economic and trade relations and engaging in greater co-operation in the energy and transport sectors,” he stated.

During the meeting the Estonian foreign minister expressed hope that Tajikistan’s negotiations for joining the World Trade Organisation (WTO) would come to a close by the end of this year. “Estonia is also prepared to advise Tajikistan on the topic of fulfilling accession criteria,” he confirmed.

Photos from the meeting: http://www.flickr.com/photos/estonian-foreign-ministry

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EU Commissioner for International Co-operation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response Kristalina Georgieva to Visit Estonia

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:32:03 GMT

No. 2-TT

European Union Commissioner for International Co-operation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response Kristalina Georgieva will be in Estonia on Monday, 16 January.

The commissioner has a meeting scheduled with Foreign Minister Urmas Paet. She will also meet with Minister of the Interior Ken-Marti Vaher and deputy director of the Estonian Rescue Service Alo Tammsalu. Within the framework of the visit she will also have a meeting with chairman of the Riigikogu national defence committee Mati Raidma, chairman of the foreign affairs committee Marko Mihkelson, chairman of the European Union affairs committee Taavi Rõivas, and vice chairman of the European Union affairs committee Marianne Mikko.

Attention journalists!

Journalists, photographers and camera operators interested in covering the visit should be accredited no later than Monday, 16 January at 09.00. Please contact the Foreign Ministry press centre at centre@mfa.ee or by phone at 637 7630 with your first name and surname, publication/channel, and ID card number.

Please specify exactly which event(s) you would like to cover!

10.00 Meeting with Foreign Minister Urmas Paet

(Foreign Ministry, Lauteri 2)

TV, photo – first moments of the event. We ask that you arrive no later than 9.45

10.30 Joint press conference of Foreign Minister Paet and Commissioner Georgieva

(Foreign Ministry, Lauteri 2)

Languages: Estonia, English

We ask that journalists arrive no later than 10.20

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