Minna-Liina Lind, Undersecretary for Global Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, took part
in the EU–CELAC Summit held in Santa Marta, Colombia, on 8–9 November.
In her address, Undersecretary Lind highlighted Estonia’s view that there are numerous opportunities to strengthen cooperation between the EU and CELAC countries, particularly in the digital and cyber domains. “Digital transformation and bridging the digital divide are priorities in both regions,” Lind noted. “Estonia is a global leader in digital development, and we are pleased to see growing collaboration between our digital organisations, especially in the field of e-governance.”
She also emphasised that the adoption of new technologies must be accompanied by adherence to cybersecurity standards. “It is essential to ensure people’s privacy and safety, as well as the reliability and transparency of digital solutions.” The EU and CELAC countries are already cooperating through the LAC4 Cyber Competence Centre, which supports the development of a rules-based and resilient cyber environment.
Undersecretary Lind further stressed that Latin American and Caribbean countries are strategically important partners for the European Union. Although tensions in the region have increased, both Europe and Latin America are united in their commitment to upholding the principles of international law. “Russia’s aggression against Ukraine violates these principles daily. That is why we must continue to support Ukraine in every way possible, to defend the rules-based international order and prevent Russia from reshaping it,” Lind stated.
Climate issues were also discussed in connection with the upcoming COP30 climate conference. Lind underscored the need for swift and effective solutions to mitigate and adapt to the damage caused by climate change. EU member states and the European Investment Bank are among the largest contributors to climate funds in developing countries.
During the summit, a joint declaration was adopted, reaffirming the commitment of the EU and CELAC countries to the UN Charter, the principles of international law, the protection of human rights, and the strengthening of ties within international organisations. The declaration expressed a clear intention to deepen cooperation in areas such as trade, climate, health, migration, culture, and digital affairs.
During her visit, Undersecretary Lind also met with Uruguay’s Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin, Colombia’s Deputy Minister for Multilateral Affairs Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, and Gisela Padovan, Director of Brazil’s Secretariat for Latin America and the Caribbean. Discussions focused on digital topics, multilateral cooperation formats, and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
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