“The changed circumstances are forcing Europe to rethink itself, to increase the common ground and solidarity between countries more broadly,” said President Karis. “Our situations may differ from country to country, but noticing and supporting each other and solving problems together broadens understanding and solidarity.”
“Estonia and Italy are united by their role as border states – the European border has brought us together and made us closer,” said President Karis. “Italy has stood as a strong frontline country for migration in Southern Europe and has contributed to the strength of the Eastern border of Europe with missions.”
This autumn, Italian fighters will again arrive in Ämari to defend the Baltic airspace. In the past, Italy has participated in air security missions in Ämari in 2018 and 2021.
“Estonia and Italy are both strong supporters of EU enlargement,” said the Estonian Head of State. The meaning and importance of European enlargement has grown further as a result of Russia’s war of aggression. In order to reduce the potential threat, it’s also important to make a greater contribution to defence costs – we all have an equal share in strengthening European defence capabilities.”
The meeting between President Alar Karis and President of Italy Sergio Mattarella focused on cooperation in the fields of defence, culture and education, and digital, cyber and IT development projects between the two countries were also discussed.
In addition to the President of Italy, President Alar Karis will also meet Lorenzo Fontana, President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, deliver a lecture at the NATO Defence College in Rome and visit the headquarters of the European Union’s maritime rescue mission IRINI.
Photos: Raigo Pajula/Office of the President of the Republic https://www.flickr.com/photos/presidendikantselei/albums/
