President Alar Karis met in The Hague with His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and Prime Minister Rob Jetten.

“We share a similar outlook and approach to life with the Dutch, and we are like-minded in our view of the world. Like Estonia, the Netherlands is one of Ukraine’s most steadfast supporters. During our meeting, I thanked King Willem-Alexander for the Netherlands’ contribution to the security of our region,” said President Karis.

“All European countries are neighbours of Russia, and pressure on Russia must continue in all its forms. It is important to complete the establishment of a tribunal for the crime of aggression and to secure the resources needed for its work,” the Head of State added.

“I discussed with Prime Minister Rob Jetten ways to strengthen European security and further expand our cooperation in the fields of the economy, education, digital affairs and artificial intelligence. I also invited the Prime Minister to visit Estonia,” said President Karis.

Together with his wife, Sirje Karis, President Alar Karis is on a two-day visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands on Wednesday and Thursday. The visit reaffirms the partnership between Estonia and the Netherlands, including their shared commitment as strong supporters of Ukraine. The visit focuses on security and defence cooperation, as well as the advancement of bilateral cooperation in science and education. The President is accompanied by a delegation of scientists and business representatives.

Today, President Karis will visit the Peace Palace in The Hague, home to the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the International Court of Justice. He will also deliver a lecture at Erasmus University Rotterdam on the European security situation and the challenges facing Europe in the coming decade.

Yesterday, the Head of State met with the Mayor of Utrecht and visited the city’s science park. In Noordwijk, he visited the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Space Research and Technology Centre and met Estonian specialists working there. In the evening, he met members of the local Estonian community and honorary consuls at the Estonian Embassy.

The presidential couple will return to Estonia later this evening.

Photos: Raigo Pajula / Office of the President of the Republic https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCQhVJ