Estonian foreign minister discusses European security with Finnish president and Prime Minister

TALLINN - Estonian Foreign Minister Sven Mikser discussed topics concerning European security at a meeting with the Finnish president and foreign minister on Tuesday in Helsinki.

Mikser stressed at a meeting with Foreign Minister Timo Soini and President Sauli Niinisto that Estonia and Finland are connected by a long, historical friendship. Mikser congratulated Finland on the occasion of its centenary, adding that the jubilee events of both countries are a good opportunity to get to know each other even better.

When discussing transatlantic relations, European security and defense issues, Mikser stressed the importance of a close relationship with the United States and the partnership between the EU and NATO. "Finland is a close partner who contributes to security in the Baltic Sea region and therefore to the security of Europe as a whole. Both Finland and Sweden as the closest partnership countries have an especially close relationship with NATO and it is in our interests to continue like that," Mikser said.

When speaking about the EU's topical issues and Estonia's EU presidency in the second part of the year, Mikser gave an overview of preparations and priorities. "Our goal is to keep the EU united and able to make decisions by focusing on developing a more innovative, safe, digital and inclusive Europe," he said.

Speaking about Brexit, Mikser, Niinisto, and Soini agreed that it is important to retain a close cooperation relationship with the U.K., taking into account obligations and rights.

They also spoke about the most recent developments in the Ukraine-Russia relationship. In addition, they talked about supporting each other's candidacies in international organizations. When speaking about the migration crisis, Mikser stressed that Estonia will do everything in its power to successfully integrate asylum seekers into the society. "Estonia is ready to meet all the international commitments it has assumed regarding refugees," he stressed.

When speaking about the economy, Mikser said that Estonia and Finland share a will to cooperate in nearly all fields, and their relationship is good and close.