TALLINN, ESTONIA — Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said on Thursday that Sweden plays an essential role in strengthening security, supporting Ukraine, and boosting economic growth and competitiveness across the European Union.
After meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Tallinn, Michal stressed the close partnership between the two nations. “Estonia and Sweden enjoy good and close bilateral relations. We always feel Sweden’s support when it matters most — including on 19 September, when Russian fighter jets violated our airspace,” said Michal.
According to him, both countries share the view that Russia remains a threat to regional peace and stability, and that only determined international pressure can curb Moscow’s aggression in Ukraine. “Together, we will help Ukraine to achieve a just and lasting peace on its own terms,” he said. “Estonia keeps its commitment to allocate 0.25% of GDP in annual military aid to Ukraine. This year it has been 0.3%. Sweden’s decision to allow Ukraine to acquire Gripen jets is a real gamechanger.”
Michal also urged the European Union to act swiftly on the 20th sanctions package and to intensify efforts to restrict Russia’s fossil fuel exports and shadow fleet operations.
“I am pleased that we have made real progress on the issue of using Russia’s frozen assets,” he added. “Ukraine needs these funds urgently. Russia’s attacks are daily, and a harsh winter lies ahead. Russia brazenly targets Ukraine’s energy infrastructure to make the coming months even more difficult for Ukrainian society and civilians.”
Turning to bilateral cooperation, Michal highlighted growth opportunities in defence and technology. “Estonia’s defence sector is our fastest growing sector. We have opportunities here to intensify cooperation in areas ranging from cybersecurity to the development of new defence technologies. We are keen also to expand work in AI and digital innovation. I am glad that Swedish companies see the opportunities here,” he said.
As an example of practical collaboration, he cited the Tartu prison rental agreement, which awaits ratification.
Cooperation between Estonia and Sweden remains strong within the European Union, NATO, and other international frameworks. Estonia is set to chair the Nordic-Baltic cooperation group next year, hosting the Nordic-Baltic Prime Ministers’ Meeting in Tallinn in June.
Kristersson’s visit coincided with Estonia’s commemoration of King Gustav II Adolf, founder of the University of Tartu and Gustav Adolf School.
