In accepting the credentials of the Ukrainian ambassador, President Karis reiterated Estonia’s full and unwavering support for Ukraine. “We admire the bravery and determination of the Ukrainians in defending their country and their people, and we will not only continue to support them in terms of both military and humanitarian aid, but also in terms of rebuilding the country,” he said. “We also back Ukraine on its journey towards NATO and EU membership, in regard to which we will be very happy to share our experience with them. There is no alternative to Ukraine becoming a fully fledged member of NATO.”
The head of state said that in addition to providing direct assistance, Ukraine must also be supported through efforts to bring to justice those who have committed crimes of aggression in the beleaguered country.
In meeting with the Vietnamese ambassador, President Karis expressed his delight that bilateral relations between Estonia and Vietnam had grown closer during their time working together as members of the UN Security Council. He said that Estonia was willing to continue sharing its e-governance and cybersecurity experience with Vietnam, with which it would be looking to foster bilateral trade relations in the future.
Upon meeting the Saudi Arabian ambassador, President Karis highlighted the growing economic cooperation between Estonia and Saudi Arabia. “Estonia’s business environment, digital solutions and start-ups open the door for increased cooperation,” he said.
The head of state also spoke of the situation in Ukraine and its global impact with the Vietnamese and Saudi Arabian ambassadors. He underscored the multifaceted assistance and support that Estonia is providing to bring the war to an end and stressed the role that other countries have to play in contributing to this. “We must achieve peace based on the conditions set by the Ukrainians, and we cannot allow there to be any grey zones in Europe,” he remarked.
The Ukrainian ambassador is resident in Tallinn. The Vietnamese and Saudi Arabian ambassadors are resident in Helsinki.
Gallery: Kristi Sits
