Today, 20 May, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna met in Tallinn with Singapore’s Coordinating Minister for National Security, K. Shanmugam. Discussions focused on regional security issues, including
Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine, hybrid threats, and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation.
Speaking about Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Tsahkna stressed that Russia continues to pose an existential threat both to Ukraine and to Europe as a whole, and that a just and lasting peace can only be achieved if Russia abandons its imperialist objectives.
“Russia’s aim is to fundamentally reshape the principles on which our international order is based,” said Tsahkna. “Our task is to continue actively pressuring and isolating Russia in international forums. No concessions must be made to the aggressor.” The foreign minister also expressed appreciation for Singapore’s consistent support for Ukraine, including its backing of Ukraine-related resolutions at the UN and the imposition of sanctions.
Tsahkna also gave an overview of regional hybrid threats, emphasising that sabotage, malicious interference, election meddling, disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks are among the key tools in the Kremlin’s arsenal used to undermine the unity, stability and security of Western countries.
“We are actively cooperating with international partners to build resilient structures against any kind of security threat. We are always ready to share our long-standing experience in countering hybrid threats, responding to malign influence activities and strengthening societal resilience,” he added.
The meeting also covered bilateral relations. Estonia and Singapore cooperate closely in the fields of the economy, technology, maritime affairs, and digital and cybersecurity. In light of the developing ties and the growing importance of the Nordic-Baltic (NB8) region, Tsahkna expressed hope that Singapore might consider opening an embassy in the region. Estonia opened its embassy in Singapore in 2023.
Additional information
Communication Department
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