PM says working for sake of Estonian govt staying together

TALLINN - Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas said on Friday evening that despite the differences between coalition parties, he is working for the sake of the current ruling coalition staying together.

Ratas said at a press conference after a meeting of the governing board of the Center Party that the prime minister must be the one who bears responsibility and brings the country forward and that the best way out is to talk out the differences.

"Government responsibility must be borne to the end, therefore I am rejecting all ultimatum-like demands," Ratas said. 

The prime minister said he has invited the leaders of the coalition parties to negotiations, which probably will take place on Sunday.

"Short-term political goals will not be a topic," Ratas said. 

"If the current coalition breaks up, adoption of the state budget cannot be ensured. We have to make effort towards overcoming the differences," Ratas said. 

"I will not lead a government that is lacking the capability for work. And if this happens, the Riigikogu can always take a vote of no confidence. Today, I am working towards it to go forward with the present government," Ratas said.