At a meeting with former foreign ministers of the Republic of Estonia held today, 2 February, to mark the 106th anniversary of the Tartu Peace Treaty,
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said that at a time when what we have so far considered familiar is changing, we must be creative and united in seeking ways in the new circumstances to ensure Estonia’s survival.
“The Tartu Peace Treaty, signed 106 years ago today, is the birth certificate of the Estonian state, made possible by the determined efforts of the Estonian people, soldiers and diplomats in pursuit of a shared goal. The principle of standing together and acting jointly must also be borne in mind today when setting Estonia’s foreign and security policy compass,” Tsahkna said.
“The international order we have so far been accustomed to appears to be changing. In this light, it is exceptionally important for the preservation of Estonia’s independence and sovereignty that, as a state, we speak plainly, act resolutely — also in a leading role if necessary — and, rather than falling into despair, calmly continue to pursue Estonia’s interests,” Tsahkna said.
The foreign minister stressed that the foundations of the international order that underpin Estonia’s security are today under the most direct attack in Ukraine.
“The outcome of the war in Ukraine will determine whether the principle that borders must not be changed by force remains in place, or whether it becomes acceptable for one state to attack another, kill and devastate, and to crown it all, add square kilometres to its own territory,” Tsahkna said. “That is why Ukrainians’ struggle for their independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity is at the same time a struggle for all states that care about their borders, and Ukraine will remain Estonia’s number one foreign policy priority.”
According to the foreign minister, the only thing that will carry Estonia forward in this current period of change is consistent work to maintain and strengthen partnerships and alliances.
“Estonia must be exceptionally active diplomatically. Our closest cooperation is with those nearest to us — the Nordic and Baltic countries. From there, with all other European Union partners and NATO Allies. But we cannot stop there,” the foreign minister emphasised.
“Estonia’s reach must be global, because the more visible and audible we are, the more closely we are connected — through economic, political or cultural ties — with more distant countries, and the more friends and cooperation partners we have, the more secure we will be,” Tsahkna said. “This is also why, this year, the Estonian flag will be raised at five new Estonian embassies.”
According to the foreign minister, however, Estonia’s international success and the safeguarding of our security begin at home.
“Since the restoration of independence, Estonia’s strength has been a consensus-based foreign and security policy, which has enabled us to become a reliable and credible partner on the international stage. For this to continue, we must in future also resolve any possible differences at home, so that we can act with one voice in pursuit of a common goal — exactly as our people, soldiers and diplomats did 106 years ago.”
Additional information:
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