President Arnold Rüütel during discussions on the report emphasized that Estonia in reforming its Defence Forces should base its decisions on the need to sustain its capability of independent basic defence and on tasks resulting from our accession to NATO. The Head of State noted that Estonia as a member of the alliance had to be an equal and reliable partner.
The National Defence Council supported the position of the President of the Republic.
Office of the President
Kadriorg, October 13, 2003
