Estonian Defense Minister discusses EU security, NATO with Italian counterpart

TALLINN - Estonian Defense Minister Margus Tsahkna and his Italian colleague Roberta Pinotti at a meeting in Rome on Tuesday discussed topics related to regional security, NATO, Estonia's upcoming EU presidency, the fight against terrorism and immigration.

Tsahkna said that for Estonia, Italy is an important ally on NATO's southern flank, with whom cooperation must be intensified, spokespeople for the Ministry of Defense told BNS.

"The fight against terrorism, which is topical today, is an important topic both for Italy and Estonia," Tsahkna said. "I confirmed to the Italian defense minister that Estonia is prepared to make a comprehensive contribution to the fight against terrorism and this could be one of the pillars of our defense cooperation."

Tsahkna introduced to Pinotti Estonia's priorities in national defense during the country's upcoming EU presidency, which focus on a safe and secure Europe.

Tsahkna also visited the EUNAVFOR Med SOPHIA headquarters, delivered a speech at the NATO Defense College and met with Francesco Saverio Garofani, head of the defense committee of the Italian parliament's Chamber of Deputies.