Estonia for the first time through a democratic mechanism of decision-making will have a chance to directly influence Europe's future and by that - Estonia's future as well. Today, poised to step over the threshold of the European Union, we should ask ourselves: "Is our will continuously strong enough to take new obligations and bear responsibility for shaping the future of our continent? What is the message Estonia will take to Europe and who are our messengers?" We will give answers to these questions also by electing our delegates to the European Parliament.
The importance of the upcoming election must not be underestimated. Although parliamentary groups of the European Parliament are formed on the basis of worldviews, not according to countries, our Members will simultaneously be important representatives of Estonia. I believe that Estonia will send respectable representatives to shape the future of Europe who, while preserving the common values of Europe, will have the necessary knowledge, desire and clout to defend their positions. I believe that the Members to be elected will take into consideration the mandate given by the people and be able to maintain close ties with their electors.
I call upon all my fellow citizens to raise in the run-up to the European Parliament election, without any hesitation, issues vital to both Estonia and Europe. In order to make a well-thought-through decision, I invite you to thoroughly analyse views presented by member candidates, and to actively participate in the election.
Arnold Rüütel
Kadriorg, 12 March 2004
