According to President Karis, the perspective of small countries on the Arctic region can serve as a balancing force to superpowers. “In geographic terms, Estonia is the northernmost of the countries positioned next to the so-called peripheral countries surrounding the Arctic. Thus, it is only natural that several generations of our researchers have been dealing with climate change related to the Arctic or the indigenous people in the region and their legacy and social circumstances. The vast experience and knowledge of Estonian researchers allows us to have a say in matters concerning the Arctic,” explained the head of state.
President Karis will also open the Estonian discussion panel introducing Estonian research related to the Arctic, organised as part of the assembly.
The Arctic Circle Assembly is a high-level international conference focusing on issues facing the Arctic that brings together more than 2000 delegates. In addition to heads of state and government, it includes representatives of indigenous people, researchers, experts, entrepreneurs and representatives of civil society.
During his visit to Reykjavík, President Karis will also meet President of Iceland Guðni Jóhannesson to discuss the situation in Ukraine and the Baltic region and the bilateral cooperation between Estonia and Iceland. A planned discussion with Governor General of Canada Mary Simon will address Canada’s activities in ensuring the security of the Baltic region, the situation in Ukraine and opportunities for strengthening bilateral cooperation. A meeting with Prime Minister of Greenland Múte Bourup Egede will touch upon cooperation in the digital field and e-governance and matters concerning the Arctic.
The Estonian head of state will also give a lecture in the University of Iceland, in which he will introduce the development environment of Estonian start-ups and possibilities offered by e-governance.
President Karis will return to Estonia on Friday.
