The President of the Republic thanked the United States for the support given to us during Estonia's battle to regain its independence during the period of occupation.
President Route considered it important that being a NATO member state the Estonian defence forces are serving alongside with those of the United States in Iraq, Afghanistan and in other places in the world where democracy is in danger or where it is appropriate to share the burdens of peacekeeping responsibilities.
The Head of Estonian state noted with regret that the world had not become securer. "We have to continue relentless fight against terrorism, the latest manifestations of which were recent bomb explosions in London. It is clear that in order to prevent such acts we have to apply efficient measures and the criminals have to get their punishment. But I am also convinced that the germs of terrorism do not originate only from desire for revenge of some groups or from lack of democracy; they have a very complicated background. Alongside with implementing security measures we all together have to delve also into the causes of terrorism and cut through the roots of evil," President Rüütel stressed.
Public Relations Unit of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, July 22, 2005
