Tallinn, Estonia – June 6, 2024 – Prime Minister Kaja Kallas of Estonia has emphasized the deepening relationship between Estonia and Sweden during her visit to Stockholm, where she met with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and addressed the Sommarminglet technology conference.
The European Iron Lady highlighted the importance of Estonian-Swedish collaboration in enhancing regional security and competitiveness. “Technology and innovation are the key to our future, and their development will benefit both Estonia and Sweden,” Kallas stated, underscoring the objective to bolster business ties.
The defence sector was identified as a promising area for joint ventures. “Investing in defence technology strengthens our security and boosts the economy,” Kallas remarked, encouraging Estonian and Swedish companies to explore collaborative opportunities. The Estonian government’s defence industry fund is also open to Swedish firms, inviting them to participate in the NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) in Estonia.
Prime Minister Kallas proposed a broader ambition to unite with Sweden and other Nordic countries to establish a new Nordic innovation and tech valley, fostering a hub of technological advancement in the region.
Solidarity with Ukraine
Both nations reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, with Kallas thanking Sweden for its substantial aid package and advocating for Ukraine’s integration into the EU and NATO to ensure European peace.
NATO and Defence Spending
With Sweden’s recent NATO accession, Kallas called for enhanced cooperation to improve Europe’s defence capabilities. She urged all NATO allies to commit to spending at least 2% of GDP on defence, suggesting an increase to 2.5% or 3% to address capability gaps and support new defence plans.
The visit marks a significant step in the collaborative efforts between Estonia and Sweden, with technology and defence at the forefront of their partnership.
For more details on the outcomes of Prime Minister Kallas’s visit and the future of Estonian-Swedish relations, please refer to the official statements from Stenbock House.
