SDP finds support

  • 2011-11-30
  • From wire reports

TALLINN - The board of the Russian Party in Estonia (RPE) discussed at its meeting on Nov. 24 the recent call of the Estonian Social Democratic Party (SDP) to non-Estonians, and decided to support the initiative and seek cooperation with SDP, reports National Broadcasting.

The party made a proposal to launch consultations between the parties on overcoming the division between communities and consolidation of society to create for all Estonian residents, irrespective of their nationality and mother tongue, better possibilities to participate in social and political life.
RPE chairman Stanislav Cherepanov said that the party does not rule out merging with SDP if both sides are interested. “Primarily we are interested in allies to implement our program,” he said.

“We are very happy about the emergence of such a weighty possible ally. Thus, we have decided to react to the proposal of the Social Democrats and offer them cooperation,” he added.
SDP’s chairman Sven Mikser said that since SDP is interested in increasing its support among Russian speaking voters, any possible cooperation with RPE is very welcome, including the party merging with SDP. He said that a merger has not been talked about at the delegations level, but it is possible in the future.