Washington, 30 October 2019 – today, Prime Minister Jüri Ratas delivered a speech at the American Enterprise Institute, stressing that European-US cooperation is the foundation of a secure, peaceful, and prosperous world. Transatlantic relations are supported by good EU–NATO interaction, which complements rather than duplicates activities.
“History has shown how important it is for the United States and Europe to act together. Only when we stand united can peace, security, and prosperity be guaranteed. The consequences of failing to stick together have been catastrophic.”
“Estonia knows the price of freedom very well,” the Prime Minister added. “75 years ago, in 1944, Estonians, Latvians, and Lithuanians fled from the Soviet occupation without knowing whether they could ever return to their homeland or see it. Many of our fellow compatriots found a new home in the US, as well as an opportunity to rebuild their lives and to make a future for themselves in freedom. The US was also the place that kept the dream of a free and democratic Estonia alive.”
Speaking about security, Ratas pointed out in his speech that the situation in the world is becoming more complicated. “The opposition to democracy, the free market economy, and the rule of law is growing. We are threatened by international terrorism, hybrid attacks and cyber threats, as well as Russia’s reckless attitude towards international law coupled with destabilising activities and aggressive military behaviour,” the Prime Minister said.
Ratas also talked about steps that we can take to improve transatlantic cooperation. NATO plays the most important role in ensuring security, Ratas stressed. “I am pleased that we have seen real progress in this direction in recent years. We have brought collective defence back to the centre of NATO and taken steps to improve our military readiness. We have ensured the presence of allies, including the US, in our region.”
Ratas considered it important to increase synergies between the EU and NATO. “Estonia is one of the strongest believers in transatlantic relations in the world and at the same time, one of the most EU-minded countries. There is no contradiction here.”
According to the prime minister, Estonia can contribute to the intensification of transatlantic cooperation through membership of the UN Security Council but also through the vigorous leadership of the Three Seas Initiative.
Ratas also participated in the Security Policy Roundtable today at The Heritage Foundation, which discussed relations with Russia and new challenges in international security and the Estonian economy and future.
Photos of the visit:
https://flic.kr/s/aHsmHZNWVk