Prime Minister Andrus Ansip made a presentation on topical issues of the development of cooperation between the state and local authorities; Minister of Finance Aivar Sõerd spoke about the state budgetary strategy and revenue bases of local authorities. Minister of Environment Villu Reiljan gave an overview of possibilities how to accelerate the municipalization of land and the corresponding action plan. Minister of Education and Research Mailis Reps spoke about the Ministry's action plan for developing the network of schools and the topical educational policy issues. Minister of Justice Rein Lang spoke about the constitutional bases of the activities of local authorities and their independence.
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The Roundtable reached a common understanding that at the next meeting, in September, far-reaching problems of Estonia's development would be discussed together with the Public Understanding Forum. It was also noted that the dialogue between the state and local authorities had become more intensive and it was necessary to further develop that dialogue using different forms so that such well-organised and balanced cooperation would become an engine for Estonia's development.
Public Relations Unit of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, June 13, 2005
