President Karis: The partnership between Estonia and Greece in NATO and the EU remains as strong as ever

During a meeting with his Greek counterpart Constantine Tassoulas today, President Alar Karis underscored the excellent, long-standing relations between their two countries, which he described as being based on shared democratic values and respect for international law.

"With the security situation being what it is today, the two of us working together is more important than ever," he remarked. "Estonia and Greece are partners in the EU and allies in NATO, and we advocate for a world order grounded in international rules and support for Ukraine. It is vital that all allies continue to increase their defence spending so that it matches the security threats we are facing."

Discussing European security, the head of state highlighted effective cooperation in NATO and the importance of transatlantic relations. "Russia's aggression in Ukraine and attempts to undermine the rules-based world order have led to a security situation that compels Estonia and Greece, as like-minded nations, to find ways of stopping the aggressor," he noted. He called on Greece to continue to provide military assistance to Ukraine and to back the country in moving towards EU accession. He also stressed the need to ramp up pressure on Russia, including by actively contributing to the obstruction of its shadow fleet.

The security situation in the Middle East was also touched on during the meeting. President Karis stressed the need to find a diplomatic solution in order to ease tensions. "The crisis in the region is having a direct impact on European security, which is why it is crucial that a lasting ceasefire is achieved," he said.

EU enlargement was also discussed by the heads of state. "It is important that we collectively break free of this period of stagnation we are in and that enlargement continues," President Karis urged.

During his visit, the head of state also met with President of the Hellenic Parliament Nikitas Kaklamanis - with whom he discussed boosting cooperation between the Estonian and Greek parliaments and support for Ukraine - and Minister of Education and Religious Affairs Sofia Zacharak, highlighting the importance of cultural and educational cooperation. "While security is our focal point at present, education and culture remain a bridge that unites our nations," he said. "They play a key role in maintaining and strengthening our shared values." President Karis also outlined the AI Leap education programme and discussed opportunities for cooperation in the field of education.

On Wednesday, President Karis will be addressing the audience at the annual Delphi Economic Forum as part of the event's opening panel. He will be returning to Estonia later that evening.

Gallery (Raigo Pajula/Office of the President): https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCRqye