I see the Three Seas Initiative as a needed and well-established mechanism for narrowing the infrastructure gap within the EU. It strengthens transatlantic ties and reinforces regional security and independence - economically, digitally, and energy wise.
Estonia is committed to advancing infrastructure and energy projects that don’t just link points on a map, but empower people, businesses and economies.
Let’s be clear: infrastructure today must do more than move goods or people and support military mobility. It must also carry data, enable sustainable energy and adapt to the challenges of climate change and cyber space.
Whether it’s Rail Baltica, data storage or data flow enabling corridors, or synchronized electricity grids, Estonia is investing in projects that bind us more tightly to each other - and to a secure and smart Europe.
Energy security is not optional - it is essential. Estonia has moved quickly to strengthen our energy independence, together with Latvia and Lithuania synchronised its electricity grids with the European grid. We have also invested in LNG infrastructure and accelerated clean energy development.
But no country stands alone in this task. That is why we support deeper cooperation on regional energy networks, smart grids and renewable energy integration within the Three Seas area. The more interconnected we are, the more resilient we become. We require a renewed commitment to regional energy cooperation within 3SI and beyond, in order to connect our markets, attract investments and increase energy security.
For Estonia, digital is not just a sector - it is our mindset. I believe - if we commit to it together - the Three Seas region can lead Europe in digital connectivity, cybersecurity and innovation ecosystems.
We support the creation of trusted digital corridors, joint R&D initiatives and a strong focus on AI and secure cross-border digital services that drive efficiency, transparency and growth.
In Estonia I just launched an education program called AI Leap. Through the program all Estonian students and teachers will be given access to leading global AI-based learning applications in order to develop skills to use AI wisely in the learning process. The aim is to give youngsters better analytical and critical thinking skills, to get them ready and prepared for the future.
Governments should act as an enabler. But it is the private sector that will build, innovate and sell the product. Estonia encourages more blended financing, start-up friendly frameworks and public-private partnerships to turn ideas into investments and investments into impact. We also support the creation of a Three Seas successor fund for infrastructure investments.
The Three Seas Initiative is not just a regional project - it is a strategic platform for a stronger, more connected and digitally-driven Europe. Estonia stands ready to partner and to innovate, if needed also take a lead. Let us together build a region that is not just catching up - but setting the pace.
May the discussions held here today spark new ideas and forge new partnerships, that benefit all of us.
Thank you!
