President Karis noted that the Czech economy has been one of the most successful in Central and Eastern Europe for many years and has often been a benchmark for the Estonian economy. “In recent years, the Czech economy has set a particularly strong example for Estonia, thanks to its stable growth and the fact that international organisations forecast that this growth will continue in the coming years,” said President Karis.
The head of state pointed out that Czech products are well known to Estonians. “Czech trolleybuses, trams and buses have been used in Tallinn’s public transport system more than once,” said President Karis. “Recently, an Estonian railway company bought trains from the Czech Republic and Škoda is undoubtedly one of the most popular car brands in Estonia.” The president added that many homes in Estonia have Bohemian glass, and good Czech beer is also highly appreciated on summer days. According to President Karis, the Czech market also offers many opportunities for Estonian entrepreneurs.
The Estonian head of state also addressed the growing importance of cyber security and the defence industry. “Cybersecurity is already an area of strong cooperation between Estonia and the Czech Republic, but I believe we still have significant potential to further deepen this partnership,” said President Karis.
President Karis stressed that Russia’s war against Ukraine has changed the security environment in Europe and increased demand in the defence industry. “Although the defence industry is still a relatively small sector, it is one of the fastest growing sectors in Europe today,” said President Karis. According to him, it has great potential to support the development of knowledge-intensive businesses and strengthen the European economy as a whole.
According to the head of state, it is a task for all Europe to strengthen the links between defence industry companies. “Cooperation doesn’t have to be just about buying or selling products,” he said. “Even more valuable are partnerships that lead to joint projects and production, and allow companies to enter larger international markets together.”
Photos (Karli Saul/Office of the President of the Republic): https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCUWze
