The Heads of State of Estonia and Luxembourg deemed it important that the present functioning principles of the European Union be preserved

In his speech delivered at the Grand Ducal Palace during the festive dinner in honour of President Rüütel and Mrs Ingrid Rüütel Grand Duke Henri emphasized common features between Estonia and Luxembourg: "Our meeting couldn't have taken place at a more suitable moment. It is taking place in a time when many difficulties of the past will be left in history and new prospects can be seen to emerge, thanks to which Estonia and Luxembourg are going to be partners." Reminiscing about the history, the Grand Duke observed that the smart action of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania reminded him of the far-sighted steps taken 60 years ago, which resulted in the birth of Benelux. The Grand Duke also stressed that we should see to it that vital European achievements like the principles of cooperation and equality of Member States were not called into question while building Europe.