Minister Lipavský hosts Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna in Prague
02.04.2024 / 13:13 | Aktualizováno: 02.04.2024 / 13:42
On Tuesday, 2 April 2024, the Foreign Ministers of the Czechia and Estonia discussed bilateral relations within the European Union and the security situation on NATO's eastern flank at the Czernin Palace. During the meeting, Jan Lipavský and Margus Tsahkna also discussed further support for Ukraine and cooperation in the field of digitalisation.
The two diplomatic chiefs confirmed their interest in deepening cooperation in European policies as well as in the field of defence and security. "Relations between Czechia and Estonia are based on common values - democracy, freedom and protection of human rights. In a Europe shaken by violations of international law, Estonia plays a difficult role as a border country on the eastern flank of NATO, also with the help of Czech troops," said Minister Lipavský.
According to Minister Tsahkna, Estonia appreciates the long-standing contribution of Czechia to NATO's common defence in the form of the Czech Air Force's regular participation in the so-called Air Policing of the airspace of the Baltic countries on the eastern flank of the Alliance.
Both ministers said that there is a need to continue to assist Ukraine extensively and to support it tirelessly in its fight against the Russian aggressor. Both Czechia and Estonia have been working with maximum commitment since the beginning of the aggression. The latest example is the Czech involvement in the initiative to purchase ammunition for Kiev in third countries.
"Czechia fundamentally rejects the inclusion of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and other Baltic officials on Russia's wanted list. The Russian sanctions against the minister are yet another example of the Kremlin's efforts to intimidate Western politicians. But the Putin regime will never succeed in doing so," Minister Lipavsky added.
The diplomatic chiefs also agreed to continue Czech-Estonian expert consultations on foreign and security policy, cyber security and digitalisation. The Baltic countries are among the world leaders in this field.
Margus Tsahkna visited Prague for the first time since his inauguration and as the first Estonian foreign minister in twelve years.