Ilves, Grybauskaite talk security

TARTU -- The presidents of Estonia and Lithuania met this weekend to discuss cyber and energy security.

“Baltic unity which was critical in the process of reestablishing Lithuanian and Estonian independence has evolved into permanent intensive work aimed at protecting common values and interests in the region, the European Union and NATO. Today, as we face new challenges, we have to continue working together to ensure energy independence the Baltic States and to respond to the new threats,” Grybauskaite said.

The two leaders also took the opportunity to reaffirm the strong economic ties between the countries.

“Lithuania is a reliable partner for Estonia; this is demonstrated by the fact that you have become the first country in our list of target countries for investments,” said Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves.

The leaders also highlighted that their countries have passed the worst of the economic crisis and are joining other European countries in the road to recovery.

“I do not doubt that the EU and all its Member States will be soon richer for the experience, this being the knowledge that responsible economic and budget policy can provide the urgently needed feeling of security,” Ilves said.