Permanent Representation of Estonia to the EU :: News

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet: International Community Must Give Refugees of Syria Conflict Stronger Support Than Before

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 22:00:00 GMT

At the meeting of the European Union foreign ministers in Brussels, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said that the international community must provide stronger support than before to Syrian refugees and to the countries that have put forth a great deal of effort to receive them.

Paet stated that 60 000 people have already died as a result of the Syria crisis and at least 2.5 million people are in need of humanitarian aid. There are also nearly 4 million internally displaced persons. “According to the UN, there is a total of 700 000 Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, and Egypt, and within the first half of 2013 the number will reach one million,” said the Estonian foreign minister.

Paet stated that the refugees’ situation is extremely difficult and the help of the international community is vital.

Estonia has donated 150 000 euros to support Syrian refugees in Jordan, where there are already over 300 000 refugees, as well as 70 000 euros to support Syrian refugees in Turkey, 50 000 to the UN Emergency Response Fund for Syria, and 50 000 euros to support the humanitarian aid operations of the International Committee of the Red Cross in Syria.

Foreign Minister Paet noted that we strongly condemn the attacks of the Syrian regime against its own people and that in addition to ending the violence, it is essential to achieve a cease-fire and the formation of a transitional government in Syria. “We support the work of the European Union in resolving the crisis and in putting pressure on the Syrian regime in the name of finding a diplomatic solution,” he stated.

Paet said that the European Union must continue its partnership and co-operation with countries on the southern shore of the Mediterranean Sea.

“However, the European Union must insist that changes in these societies do not bring about universal violations of human rights, including restrictions on the rights of women and children,” he added.

The Estonian foreign minister feels that the European Union’s role in supporting the construction and democratisation endeavours of the Arab Spring countries is great and Estonia feels that supporting these countries is an important measure of the European Union’s Neighbourhood Policy, the implementation of which must be based on the success of carrying out reforms and democratisation in concrete countries. “Financial aid from the European Union must be strongly conditional,” he emphasised.

The ministers also discussed recent developments in Egypt and Paet noted that we must ensure that the Egyptian leadership carries out its reform promises, especially in the areas of improving the investment environment, ensuring human rights and basic freedoms for all groups of society, and involving civil society in political and economic life.

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

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
press@mfa.ee
www.vm.ee

Estonia Hopes For Clear Progress in European Union’s Relations With Eastern Partners This Year

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 22:00:00 GMT

This year Estonia would like to see clear progress made in relations between the European Union and its Eastern Partners Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, Belarus, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, as well as the greater political and economic integration of these countries with the European Union, Foreign Minister Paet said today at the meeting of the European Union foreign ministers in Brussels.

“Estonia supports the creation of a common economic area between the European Union and its Eastern Partners,” Paet stated. “We emphasise the need to finish up negotiations for association agreements, which include a free trade section, with Moldova, Georgia and Armenia this year,” he added.

Paet stated that Estonia would also like for the European Union’s association agreement with Ukraine to be signed at the end of November in Vilnius during the third summit of the European Union and Eastern Partners.

“Estonia feels it is essential to move towards visa freedom with all our Eastern Partners. At the same time, it is important that the development of the EU’s relations with the aforementioned countries is directly linked to the developments taking place in each country,” said Foreign Minister Paet.

The foreign minister also said that the visibility and awareness of Eastern Partnership and its programmes in partner countries should be improved. “We support working out a strategy to increase the visibility of Eastern Partnership,” he noted.

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

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
press@mfa.ee
www.vm.ee

Estonia Quiz Participants Can Win Free Trip to Estonia

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 22:00:00 GMT

Today the Estonian Foreign Ministry is opening its annual Estonia-themed trivia quiz “Estonia Quiz 2013”, which this year is dedicated to the 95th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. The grand prize is a trip for two to Estonia. The quiz can be found at the address http://quiz.mfa.ee/.

The goal of the quiz is to introduce Estonia to citizens of other countries by offering participants new and interesting facts and motivating them to do further research into Estonia and even visit the country. To enter, you must go to the quiz page and correctly answer all 12 questions. The quiz can be taken in either English or Russian and will be online until 25 May 2013.

The grand prize – a trip for two to Estonia – includes airfare for a 6-day trip to summertime Estonia, lodging in the best hotels, dinner in best restaurants, and various tours and excursions. In addition to the grand prize there will also be drawings for 5-day tour packages in Estonia. The prize packages are sponsored by Estonian companies and establishments.

This is the eighteenth web-based quiz organised by the Foreign Ministry. Over the years, interest in these quizzes has grown steadily. Last year over 10 000 people from 105 different countries participated in the quiz.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
press@mfa.ee

Estonia Wants European Union Agricultural Supports to Be More Equal

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Estonia wants for European Union agricultural supports to be equalised more quickly, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet stated today at the meeting of the European Union foreign and European affairs in Luxembourg, where the next EU financial framework (2014-2020) was discussed.

Paet said that in budget negotiations Estonia is supporting the joint proposal of the Baltic states in which they ask that direct supports be equalised more quickly, especially for the sake of those countries whose direct supports are far below the European Union average like the Baltic states. “This would ensure better grounds for competitiveness in a common market and make it possible to help out the countries with the smallest support,” Paet said.

According to Foreign Minister Paet, unequal agricultural supports distort the European Union’s common internal market. “Particularly during the current complicated time, it is essential that we abolish such distortion, as this will also help with economic growth,” he said. Paet added that agricultural supports for some member states are many times bigger than those for others and this situation is not justified.

Two other important topics for Estonia are the option of a higher cap for the percentage of GDP that can be received in cohesion policy funds and the eligibility of non-refunded VAT. “We would like for the 2.5% cap for cohesion policy funds to not apply to those countries that have been the most deeply affected by the economic crisis. Namely the countries whose economic growth from 2008-2010 was below the EU average,” the Estonian foreign minister explained. “When it comes to eligibility of non-refunded VAT, we support continuing with the same system from the previous period, in which VAT is an eligible expense for the public sector as well,” Paet added. These proposals have already been added to the negotiating box by the current EU presidency Denmark.

Paet said that Estonia supports the European Commission’s proposal regarding the general size of the budget and feels it is essential that the new financial framework focus on ensuring economic growth, increasing competitiveness, and creating jobs.

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
www.vm.ee

Strengthening Human Rights Aspect in European Union Foreign Policy Important to Estonia

Sun, 24 Jun 2012 21:00:00 GMT

At their meeting today in Luxembourg, the European Union foreign ministers condemned the shooting of a Turkish military plane by Syria. In addition to events in the European Union’s southern neighbourhood in Syria and Egypt, the situations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Belarus, and Pakistan were also discussed, as was the human rights aspect in the EU’s foreign policy.

Ambassador to the European Union Matti Maasikas, who represented Estonia at the meeting, recognised Bosnia and Herzegovina for its recent progress in state governance and expressed hope that Montenegro’s successful integration experience with the European Union would serve as an example and inspiration. “Estonia is satisfied with the work of European Union Special Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina Peter Sörensen. Strengthening the European Union’s presence would give the country positive motivation for the future and support its integration with Europe,” Ambassador Maasikas added.

In the discussion on making the human rights-related activities in the European Union’s common foreign policy stronger and more effective, Ambassador Maasikas emphasised internet freedom. “The importance of internet freedom in the European Union’s foreign activities has grown steadily and Estonia, as a successful IT state, holds the right to freedom of digital expression very dear,” said Maasikas. Since it is a candidate to be a member of the UN Human Rights Council, the strengthening of the human rights dimension in EU foreign policy and the European Union Human Rights Strategy that was approved today are extremely important for Estonia.

The ministers all condemned the downing of a Turkish military fighter jet by the Syrian army and expressed concern over the continuing violence in Syria. Clashes between the Syrian armed forces and opposition forces are regrettable and mass killings unacceptable, and both sides must end the violence against their own people. The work of the UN monitoring mission is important to Estonia, as is an ongoing presence in Syria. The monitoring mission involves close to 300 military observers from 61 countries, including one Estonian Defence Forces member.

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
www.vm.ee

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet to Discuss New European Union Financial Framework With Colleagues

Sun, 24 Jun 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet will discuss the EU’s new financial framework with his colleagues during a meeting of the foreign and European affairs ministers of the European Union in Luxembourg.

The EU ministers of foreign and European affairs will discuss the EU’s next financial framework for the last time prior to the European Council taking place from 28-29 June, where the topic will be discussed by the heads of state and government for the first time. The current European Union presidency Denmark drafted the negotiating box. “The negotiating box contains various choices and alternatives that the member states must agree on in order for the financial framework to be accepted,” explained Foreign Minister Urmas Paet. “Estonia is in favour of adding the topics of equalising direct agricultural supports more quickly and the eligibility of non-refunded VAT to the box. It is also essential for Estonia that in cohesion policy we achieve an exception to the 2.5% cap on the percentage of GDP that can be received in cohesion policy funds,” he added.

The ministers will also discuss opening accession negotiations with Montenegro and establishing a deadline for negotiations. Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said that Estonia supports opening accession negotiations with Montenegro. “Montenegro has fulfilled the necessary criteria for it and the countries that have made progress should be allowed to move forward with integration,” said Paet.

Tonight Foreign Minister Urmas Paet will participate in a meeting of the foreign ministers of the European Union and Persian Gulf Co-operation Council countries, where topics of discussion will be relations among the countries and issues related to piracy. The members of the Persian Gulf Co-operation Council are Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

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
www.vm.ee

Cleanup Initiative Started in Estonia “Let’s Do It!” Carried Out in Rio de Janeiro

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Yesterday a trash cleanup action born from the Estonian civic initiative “Let’s Do It!” took place in Rio de Janeiro as part of the UN Conference for Sustainable Development Rio+20. The purpose of the event was to introduce the world cleanup campaign “Let’s Do It World Cleanup 2012”.

Over a hundred people participated in the cleanup event in Rio de Janeiro’s Garota de Ipanema Park, cleaning up the park, beach, forest, and even the ocean floor. Participants hailed from 15 countries: Estonia, Brazil, Thailand, Canada, Lithuania, Korea, Sweden, Iran, Venezuela, Australia, Portugal, Austria, the USA, New Zealand, and Italy.

Foreign Minister Urmas Paet, who also participated in the cleanup event, said that civic initiatives are a good way to change how people think about things. “This year there are almost 100 countries participating in the ‘Let’s Do It World Cleanup 2012’ campaign,” he stated. “All of us want this kind of sustainable development. If each of us does a little bit, we can achieve a lot,” he added.

Paet said that it is essential to know the price of our actions as well as what inaction will cost us. “Developments today are extremely alarming – 85% of the oceans’ fish stocks are over-exploited, in the last 20 years CO2 emissions have increased by 38%, 67 million children in the world do not attend school, forests are decreasing by 5.2 million hectares per year, inequality is growing, and our ecological footprint is very large,” he noted. “Only focused global action can create change. Sustainable development is not a goal in and of itself; it is rather a path that enables us to have a future.”

Estonian Honorary Consul in Rio de Janeiro Oskar Metsavaht and one of the founders of the world cleanup campaign, Rainer Nõlvak, also participated in the event yesterday.

Photos: http://tinyurl.com/dx48dtb

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
pressitalitus@mfa.ee

The Supreme Court: Provision of the Treaty establishing the European Stability Mechanism contested by the Chancellor of Justice deemed constitutional

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 21:00:00 GMT

With its judgment today, the Estonian Supreme Court en banc dismissed the application of the Chancellor of Justice to declare Article 4 (4) of the Treaty Establishing the European Stability Mechanism (ESM Treaty) to be in conflict with the Constitution. The Supreme Court is of the position that although the contested article restricts the financial competence of the Estonian parliament (Riigikogu), the principle of rule of law and the sovereignty of Estonia, the restriction is justified.

On March 12, 2012 the Chancellor of Justice filed to the Supreme Court an application for constitutional review as he considered the provision in question to be in conflict with the Constitution*. Generally, financial assistance, under ESM, is granted at the consent of all contracting parties. However, Article 4 (4) of the ESM Treaty states that in exceptional circumstances, when the economic and financial sustainability of the euro area are threatened, it shall be possible to grant a contracting party financial assistance under an emergency procedure which requires a qualified majority of 85% of the votes cast. Thus, financial assistance may be granted regardless of the opposition of Estonia.

Upon assessment of the constitutionality of Article 4 (4) of the ESM Treaty, the Supreme Court considered the restriction arising from the article, i.e. the decrease of the power to decide the use of public finances. On the other hand, the Supreme Court considered the purpose of the contested article – to ensure an efficient decision-making procedure in case of a threat to the financial stability of the euro area, including Estonia. The economically and financially unstable euro area would pose a threat to the financial and economic stability of Estonia. Stability is necessary in order for Estonia to be able to perform its obligations arising from the Constitution, including ensuring the fundamental rights of people.

By acceding to European Stability Mechanism (ESM), the Riigikogu shall assume a financial obligation to Estonia, the maximum limit of which is provided by the ESM Treaty. The ratification of the Treaty shall narrow the options of the Riigikogu to make other costly choices upon organising state matters in the future. On the other hand, a stable economic environment expected to be ensured by Article 4 (4) of the ESM Treaty is essential for ensuring constitutional values and fundamental rights. The Supreme Court en banc took into account the fact that even in the emergency procedure financial assistance shall be granted in stringent terms which also include respective decisions of the European Central Bank and of the European Commission.

The Supreme Court en banc indicated that the problem of unconstitutionality may not only arise upon ratification of the Treaty but also upon performance of the tasks provided for in the ESM Treaty. For example, the Riigikogu needs to decide how to finance the performance of the Treaty. The Supreme Court is also competent to examine the constitutionality of performance of the ESM Treaty, should it be contested in the future.

The Supreme Court also noted that the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia Amendment Act adopted in a referendum of 2003 does not enable unlimited delegation of Estonia’s competence to the European Union. If the founding treaty of the European Union is amended or a new founding treaty is entered into and if it brings about more extensive delegation of Estonia’s competences to the European Union and more extensive interference of the Constitution, the consent of the bearer of the supreme political authority, i.e. the people of Estonia, shall be requested and the Constitution probably has to be amended again.

The Supreme Court en banc also pointed out the procedural requirements to be followed by the Riigikogu upon ratification of the ESM Treaty. It is up to the Riigikogu to decide whether Estonia accedes to ESM.

THE JUDGEMENT OF THE SUPREME COURT EN BANC and DISSENTING OPINIONS

In Estonian, English translations available at www.riigikohus.ee/?lang=en after 3 September 2012

For further information contact

Eveli Kuklane
Head of the Public Relations Department
Phone +372 730 9042

Eveli.Kuklane@riigikohus.ee

* The Constitution of the Republic of Estonia states that the Chancellor of Justice shall be, in his or her activities, an independent official who shall review the legislation of the legislative and executive powers for conformity with the Constitution and the laws (§ 139 (1) of the Constitution). The Constitutional Review Procedure Act provides the Chancellor of Justice with the right to submit an application to the Supreme Court to declare an international agreement which has been signed or a provision thereof to be in conflict with the Constitution (§ 6(1)4)).

Grand Prizes for Foreign Ministry’s Estonia Quiz Went to the Netherlands and Russia

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 21:00:00 GMT

On Monday, 4 June, Foreign Ministry Secretary General Alar Streimann randomly selected the winners of the Foreign Ministry’s Estonia-themed web-based quiz. The grand prizes of the Foreign Ministry’s web-based quiz were trips to Estonia, which went to the Netherlands and Russia.

The goal of the Foreign Ministry Estonia quiz is to introduce Estonia to citizens of other countries by offering participants new and interesting facts in the hopes of inspiring them to do further research into Estonia and visit the country.

This year’s quiz was filled out by 10 100 participants from 105 countries. Secretary General Alar Streimann stated that this is a record for the number of participants since 2002, when the Foreign Ministry quizzes began. “The tremendous number of participants reflects a diverse interest in Estonia. In addition to our close neighbours, responses also came from every corner of the earth, for example Honduras, El Salvador, Nepal, and Mongolia,” Streimann noted.

The most responses came from Russia, Ukraine, the United States, Belarus, Turkey and Germany.

The quiz was posted in two languages. There were 6 262 participants in the English-language quiz and 3 838 in the Russian-language quiz. The total number of people that answered all the questions correctly was 7 738.

Participants in the English-language quiz were eligible to win 4 trips in summertime Estonia. The grand prize was a six-day travel package for two including two round-trip plane tickets to Estonia from Estonian Air, nights in the Three Sisters and L’Ermitage hotels in Tallinn, a city excursion in Tallinn from Estravel, dinner in the restaurants MEKK and Olde Hansa, a Tallinn VIP Card from the city of Tallinn for visiting the sights, a visit to the Open-Air Museum and KUMU Art Museum, and a bike tour from Citybike. The package also included a trip to Saaremaa with a stop in the Georg Ots Spa Hotel.

Prizes for the Russian-language quiz were two travel packages in Estonia. The grand prize winner receives two round-trip plane tickets to Estonia from Estonian Air, nights in the Telegraaf Hotel and City Hotel Portus in Tallinn, and dinner in the restaurant Ribe. The winner will also visit Lahemaa and stay in the hotels of Sagadi Manor and Vihula Manor as well as Viinistu Hotel. The winner also receives a Tallinn excursion from Estravel and a Tallinn VIP Card from the city of Tallinn. The winner will visit KUMU Art Museum and participate in a bike tour in Tallinn organised by Citybike.

The Foreign Ministry has organised Estonia-themed quizzes geared towards foreigners since 2002. This year the quiz was organised for the 17th time.

The quiz consisted of twelve multiple-choice questions about different facets of life in Estonia. The quiz was open to participants from 1 March to 31 May, and could be seen at the address http://quiz.mfa.ee/.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs would like to thank all the quiz participants and all the sponsors.

Photos: http://tinyurl.com/bvecnzy

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
pressitalitus@mfa.ee

Estonia wants to make changes to the next draft budget (2014-2020) of the European Union

Mon, 28 May 2012 21:00:00 GMT

During the discussion on the next budget of the European Union at the EU’s foreign and EU ministers in Brussels today, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said that when it comes to the common agricultural policy, Estonia calls for a faster equalization of direct aid.

“When it comes to the below average direct aid of the European Union, we don’t feel any equal treatment; gaps of this size have no justification on the common market,” Paet said. “Along with Latvia and Lithuania, Estonia has proposed a speedier equalization of direct aid,” he said.

Paet said that in terms of the European Union common market there is no justification for the fact that aid given to Estonia is merely 45% of the EU average. “The suggestion of the European Commission to raise the aid to 58% is also not sufficient,” he added.

Speaking about the cohesion policy of the European Union, Paet said that Estonia is a good example of how structural funds can help fight unemployment, create jobs and growth. “Therefore, it is vital for Estonia that when it comes to using structural funds, the limit of 2.5% of the GDP is not imposed on those member states that are worst hit by the economic crisis,” Paet stressed. This exception to the limit, suggested by Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, is still included in the package currently being negotiated, he assured.

“We are moving towards a common understanding that the next EU budget will be an instrument for boosting growth, employment and competition,” the Estonian Foreign Minister said. “A new budget means investments and must help to achieve the aims of the Europe 2020 strategy for job creation and growth,” he said.

According to Paet, Connecting Europe Facility is a good economy-boosting initiative, which invests in cross-border infrastructure projects and Estonia also contributes to the ten billion euro aid to the states included in the EU cohesion policy.

Today, the entire package was on the ministers’ table for the first time: that is to say, expenses as well as income.

Additional information:
Helen Ennok, spokesperson at the Permanent Representation of Estonia to the EU
+32 474 98 16 57

PRESS SERVICE
637 7654
pressitalitus@mfa.ee

Estonian Parliament Started Ratification of Croatian Accession to European Union

Mon, 14 May 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Today Foreign Minister Urmas Paet introduced the draft bill of Croatia’s European Union accession treaty to the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu).

Paet stated that European Union enlargement has been one of Estonia’s foreign policy priorities. “We hope that Croatia’s success will inspire other Western Balkan countries to take the necessary steps and continue making reforms for EU integration,” added Foreign Minister Paet.

Foreign Minister Paet stated that the European Union’s enlargement to 28 member states will increase security, expand the internal market, and also widen the free movement of people, goods and services. “We feel that all European countries that fulfil the necessary requirements must get the opportunity to join the European Union. We hope that Croatia will soon be followed by Iceland as the next new member state,” he added.

Croatia’s deadline for EU accession is set on 1 July 2013. The accession treaty will come into effect when all parties have given their ratification letters to the Italian Foreign Ministry. Currently the treaty has been ratified by eight member states – Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Italy, Malta, Latvia, Lithuania, and Cyprus. The Croatian parliament ratified the accession treaty on 9 March. Prior to that a referendum on EU accession took place in Croatia, in which 66% voted in favour of accession.

The European Union started accession negotiations with Croatia on 3 October 2005. Negotiations were concluded on 30 June 2011 at the accession conference held on the ministerial level, during which the last negotiation chapters were closed. The accession treaty was signed at the European Council meeting on 9 December 2011.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
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Estonia calls on Myanmar to restore the democratic social system

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:00:00 GMT

At the foreign ministers’ meeting in Luxembourg today, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said that Estonia recognises the positive developments in Myanmar. “The results of the parliamentary by-elections in early April, the release of many political prisoners and the readiness of the government to follow through with reforms all attest to that,” Paet said. “Therefore, Estonia supports the suspension of all restrictions placed on Myanmar, with the exception of the arms embargo.”

According to Paet, it is important to support the internal development in Myanmar that would lead to the restoration of the democratic social system. “That means a legitimate government, the development of the rule of law and social reconciliation,” Paet noted. “It is essential that all parties are willing to co-operate in carrying out political, social and economic reforms,” he added.

Estonia has decided to establish diplomatic relations with Myanmar.

Speaking at the meeting of foreign ministers of the European Union about the developments in Afganistan, Foreign Minister Paet said Estonia considers it important to support the Afghan security forces after 2014. “Estonia condemns the attacks on NATO headquarters, embassies and parliament in Kabul in mid-April,” Paet noted. “On the other hand, we recognize the increasing competence of the Afghan security forces in dealing with such attacks and we consider it important to continue supporting the further development of the security forces,” he added.

Paet emphasized that the NATO summit in Chicago must pay special attention to supporting the civilian police of Afghanistan. “The Chicago summit must send a clear message on solving security issues and supporting civilian police,” Paet said. “Naturally, our support must be based on the activities of the Afghan government in continuing with reforms,” he added.

According to Paet, Estonia has joined Denmark’s initiative that aims to express continued political support for Afghanistan and bring together countries that are willing to contribute to ensuring the development of Afghan security forces after the transition period, from 2015 onwards.

To date, Estonia has supported the development of Afghan security forces by funding the trust fund of the Afghan army, providing experts for missions and sending a defense aide to the training mission of NATO. So far, Estonia has provided the European Union police mission in Afghanistan with four experts and the NATO training mission with three policemen.

For the 2012-2015 period, Afghanistan continues to be a priority state for Estonia in the field of development co-operation.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
+372 533 66 159
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Estonia hopes that sending a UN monitoring mission to Syria will help to put an end to the violence

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:00:00 GMT

According to Foreign Minister Urmas Paet’s statement at the meeting of the foreign ministers of the European Union in Luxembourg today, Estonia considers it essential to send a UN monitoring team to Syria. “We hope that the presence of the UN monitoring mission in Syria will help to end the violence,” Paet noted.

According to the Foreign Minister of Estonia, it is vital to find a peaceful, political solution in Syria, involving all sections of society. “We support Kofi Annan’s work as the special envoy of the UN and the Arab League and his proposals for finding a solution to the Syrian crisis,” Paet noted. “The government must prove that it can meet its commitments to preserve the ceasefire and guarantee access and protection for the UN observers,” he added.

At the meeting, Paet expressed continued concern about the deteriorating living conditions of Syrian civilians in areas affected by the unrest. “The Syrian authorities must grant full and unhindered humanitarian access to people in need,” Paet emphasised. He added that Estonia has decided to support the victims of the Syrian crisis by donating 50,000 euros to the UN Syria emergency fund.

Concerning Iran, Paet noted that Estonia supports finding a diplomatic solution to the issues related to Iran’s nuclear programme. “We welcome the renewed readiness to continue negotiations on the nuclear programme and specific proposals for moving towards a solution,” he said.

According to Paet, Iran must be open to inspections of facilities connected to the nuclear programme and make efforts to restore confidence in the peaceful nature of the programme within the framework of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
+372 533 66 159
pressitalitus@mfa.ee
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Estonia calls for a release of all political prisoners in Belarus

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:00:00 GMT

The European Union must continue to demand for the release and rehabilitation of all political prisoners in Belarus, the Foreign Minister of Estonia, Urmas Paet, said at the meeting of the foreign ministers of the European Union in Luxembourg today.

Foreign Minister Paet noted that while the softening of Belarusian rhetoric concerning the European Union and the release of a few political prisoners is welcome, the overall human rights situation in the country has not improved. “Therefore, it is early to suspend sanctions; that requires the release of all political prisoners,” he explained.

According to Paet, the democratic forces in Belarus must receive continued support, as it is essential for the future of the country.

Foreign Minister Paet added that Estonia calls on other European Union member states to use the option to issue free visas. “This provides the citizens of Belarus with the opportunity to travel in the free world and fosters contacts between people,” Paet said. Estonia waived the fee of national visas for Belarusians in March 2011.

Estonia feels that the European Union ambassadors who recently left Minsk should return as soon as possible, as their absence further reduces the decreased interaction with Belarus and limits the activities of the European Union on the scene.

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
+372 533 66 159
pressitalitus@mfa.ee
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New Budget and Schengen Area Reform Discussed at European Union Home Affairs Council

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 22:00:00 GMT

The European Union Justice and Home Affairs Council that gathered today in Brussels discussed matters related to the new multi-year financial framework. In accordance with the proposals of the European Commission, over 10.9 billion euros of the EU’s funds will be allocated from 2014-2020 to address migration, external borders, and internal security activities.

In addition, nearly two billion euros is being allocated for information technology, including the IT agency located in Tallinn. “We feel that the goal of the European Union common budget should be to first and foremost finance activities that are not contained by the borders of one member state. A good example is the investment that will be made in the EU’s central IT systems,” stated Estonian Ambassador to the EU Matti Maasikas, who represented Estonia at the meeting. “Estonia feels it is important for resources to be flexibly and effectively used, but the main thing is to achieve added value for everyone, which would not be possible if one were to act alone. Therefore we are satisfied with the Commission’s proposals regarding home affairs issues,” Maasikas noted.

Another topic addressed at the council was Schengen area reform, and it was agreed that there is a need to quickly get the reform moving during the upcoming Danish presidency. For Estonia the most vital issues are the strengthening of external borders and the creation of a mechanism that would allow for border controls to be temporarily restored under exceptional circumstances in order to preserve internal security.

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
www.vm.ee

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

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

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
www.vm.ee

New European Union Budget Must Raise EU’s Competitiveness

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

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

SPOKESPERSON’S OFFICE
+372 637 7654
pressitalitus@mfa.ee
www.vm.ee

Estonia Supports Giving European Union Candidate Country Status to Serbia

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

At the European Union General Affairs Council in Brussels today, Estonia supported giving European Union candidate country status to Serbia, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said.

Foreign Minister Paet stated that Serbia has fulfilled the necessary criteria to become a European Union candidate country and it should be recognised for it. “Estonia appreciates the steps that Serbia has taken in carrying out reforms and normalising relations with Kosovo,” he said. “We are in favour of granting candidate country status to Serbia,” Paet added.

Paet noted that giving European Union candidate country status to Serbia is significant in the context of further European Union enlargement.

It is of vital importance to the stability of the Western Balkan region that talks between Serbia and Kosovo continue and for a European Union perspective to be confirmed for Kosovo, Paet stated. “In this area, a significant step forward would be studying the feasibility of a Stability and Association Agreement between the European Union and Kosovo and moving in the direction of a visa waiver,” he added.

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
www.vm.ee

Estonia Supports Kosovo’s Endeavours to Integrate With Europe

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Yesterday in Brussels, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet met with Foreign Minister of Kosovo Enver Hoxhaj and Minister of European Integration of Kosovo Vlora Citaku and confirmed that Estonia is prepared to continue supporting Kosovo in both building up its country as well as in its international relations and European integration.

“We support Kosovo’s integration with the European Union,” stated Paet. “It is a long-term process that requires a focused and dedicated effort to carry out reforms,” noted the Estonian foreign minister.

Paet stated that Kosovo should also achieve a visa waiver with the European Union countries. “Currently Kosovo is the only country in the Western Balkans that does not have a visa waiver with the European Union,” he said.

“Kosovo’s serious contribution to talks with Serbia is essential, since the normalisation of relations between Serbia and Kosovo is of vital importance to the stability of the region,” Paet asserted. “Dialogue is the best way to resolve differences and avoid tensions,” he added.

Paet asserted that Estonia is seeing developments in its bilateral relations with Kosovo. “We consider supporting the development of Kosovo and contributing to the activities of the international forces in Kosovo to be important, and we remain ready to share our experiences from building up our country with Kosovo,” he stated. “In this regard, the democratic institutions functioning well and the implementation of the principles of rule of law are of key importance,” emphasised the Estonian foreign minister.

Yesterday in Brussels, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet also met with Greek Foreign Minister Stavros Dimas and signed a memorandum of mutual understanding for co-operation between the foreign ministries of Greece and Estonia.

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
www.vm.ee

European Union Must Help South Caucasus Countries Integrate With Europe

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Estonia would like for the European Union’s Eastern Partners in the South Caucasus – Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan – to look to Europe and move closer to the European Union, Foreign Minister Urmas Paet said today at the European Union foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels.

“The more countries that make this choice, the better it is for the European Union’s interests,” said the Estonian foreign minister. Georgia is in the forefront in terms of its ambition to integrate with the European Union as well as with the pace of its reforms, and it needs further attention and support from the European Union, Paet said. “Therefore we hope that in the near future the European Union will welcome Georgia’s European perspective,” he added.

Paet stated that European Union Eastern Partnership has helped to significantly intensify political and economic ties with the South Caucasus countries. “Long-term conflicts that are hindering the development of the region still require the European Union’s attention,” he noted.

Paet said that negotiations for Association Agreements with Armenia and Azerbaijan have gone well and negotiations are being started with Armenia and Azerbaijan for concluding visa facilitation and readmission agreements. There is also a desire to start a visa dialogue with Georgia, and a decision has been made to start negotiations for free trade agreements with Georgia and Armenia.

Estonia supports the European Union’s active work and leading role in addressing the aftermath of the conflict between Georgia and Russia. “The European Union Monitoring Mission fulfils a very important role in ensuring security, and therefore it is essential that the mission does not diminish and 200 monitors remain in the mission,” Paet added.

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
www.vm.ee