President Karis discussed UN reform, Middle East conflict and support for Ukraine with Secretary-General Guterres

President Alar Karis met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres in Seville at the United Nations Conference on Financing for Development to discuss UN reform, the Middle East conflict and support for Ukraine.

President Karis emphasised that Ukraine must remain at the centre of the UN agenda until Russian aggression ends and peace is achieved. “Estonia supports all international efforts that contribute to the achievement of a just peace,” said the Head of State, adding that it is important to continue to stand up for the principles of the UN Charter and the territorial integrity of Ukraine.

Addressing the Gaza conflict and the Middle East crisis, President Karis emphasised that a ceasefire would provide an opportunity to reduce violence and open the way for diplomatic solutions. “A solution for the two states is possible if terrorist hostilities and military attacks on civilians stop,” said the Head of State, and expressed hope that diplomacy would continue and lead to an end to the war in Gaza.

President Karis called for a reform of the United Nations and expressed support for the Secretary-General’s UN80 initiative, which aims to make the organisation more efficient and to adapt its activities to today’s needs. “It’s also important to continue with the reform of the Security Council and prevent the misuse of the veto,” said the Estonian Head of State.

President Karis also spoke about Estonia’s candidacy for membership of the UN Human Rights Council for 2026–2028.