Tsahkna: Tallinn-Helsinki tunnel would be a security project

TALLINN - Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on Friday discussed the Tallinn-Helsinki tunnel project with Tallinn Mayor Peeter Raudsepp, noting that the tunnel is not merely an economic project but a transport connection of strategic importance that would improve mobility between Estonia and Finland, strengthen the region's ties with all of Europe, and enhance the protection of critical maritime infrastructure.

"In the current security situation, strengthening connectivity and mobility is essential," Tsahkna noted. "The Tallinn-Helsinki tunnel would be a natural extension of the Rail Baltica railway network, connecting the north of Europe with the south and ensuring a transcontinental, resilient transport line."

According to Tsahkna, given the growing importance of the Nordic-Baltic (NB8) cooperation format, it is essential to strengthen connections that foster closer collaboration in other areas, from trade to innovation. "The NB8 countries together form the world's tenth-largest economic area, which is at the forefront of education and innovation globally. Our region's potential is immense."

"A fixed link between Tallinn and Helsinki, together with the Fehmarnbelt tunnel between Germany and Denmark, would increase the competitiveness and security of the entire Nordic-Baltic region," Tsahkna said. "Therefore, we must establish the relevant planning groups so that preparations for the tunnel's construction can begin as soon as possible."

The meeting also covered the 2027 Ukraine Recovery Conference, scheduled to be held in Tallinn at the end of January. The foreign minister emphasized that as Russia's attacks on Ukraine intensify and non-military provocations against Western allies increase, it is essential to maintain focus on Ukraine, Europe's main line of defense, throughout the year.

"The aim of the recovery conference is to gather support for Ukraine in both the short and long term, which would help the country restore critical infrastructure, strengthen its resilience and democracy, and accelerate its integration with Europe," Tsahkna said. "Our goal is to move from agreements to tangible projects and actions during the conference. We are working closely with the city of Tallinn, Ukraine, our NB8 partners, and international allies to ensure the conference yields maximum benefit and lays a strong foundation for Ukraine's long-term reconstruction."

During the meeting, the foreign minister presented the mayor of Tallinn with a letter of appreciation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, recognizing the city's contribution to the renovation of Iceland Square.