Kallas at a video conference with Merkel: Europe must emerge from the COVID-19 crisis more united and stronger

12.02.2021 | 13:09

Stenbock House, 11 February 2021 – Today, Prime Minister Kaja Kallas spoke to German Chancellor Angela Merkel about resolving the COVID-19 crisis and about topics of the next European Councils.

‘For Estonia, Germany is a key partner and an excellent ally with whom we engage in multifaceted cooperation,’ said Kallas. ‘The COVID-19 crisis has been a challenge to the cooperation of European states, but thanks to the efforts of all countries, we will soon be exiting the most difficult phase. Germany’s role in this has been major, especially during last year’s presidency,’ said Kallas.

‘It is very important that we learn the right lessons from the crisis and move on as more united. For example, we must ensure the further functioning of the Schengen area. Also, one prerequisite of opening borders is us quickly proceeding with vaccination. Estonia can contribute to this, for example, by developing digital vaccination certificates,’ said the Prime Minister.

Kallas and Merkel also discussed digital development in the European Union, potential new initiatives, and achieving climate neutrality.

Speaking of foreign policy, Kallas said that unfortunately, Russia has shown that it is not sincere in its wish to improve relations with the European Union. The Heads of Governments also discussed cooperation with the new administration of the United States of America, and the relations of the European Union with China.

Kallas accepted Chancellor Merkel’s invitation to visit Berlin at the first opportunity.

Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/stenbockimaja/albums/72157718248459731

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