Washington, 11 July 2024 – Today, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas participated in a meeting of the heads of state and government of NATO with the leaders of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union.
According to Prime Minister Kallas, the security of the free world is globally linked. “Our partnerships and cooperation with Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, but also the European Union, are crucial to tackle common threats, from cyber-attacks to hostile hybrid activities,” said Kallas. “In order to intensify practical cooperation, we also approved, together with our Indo-Pacific partners, flagship projects in four areas: support to Ukraine, cyber and hybrid threats, and new technologies,” Kallas explained.
According to the Prime Minister, today’s meeting demonstrates that we stand together with like-minded partners in defence of our values and the world order based on international law, which Russia and other non-democratic powers are trying to destroy. Kallas also thanked the leaders of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea for their strong support for Ukraine. “I remind you that all undemocratic forces continue to watch with great attention how the free world reacts to Russian aggression. The principles of the UN Charter and international law are at stake in Ukraine. Victory for Ukraine, the discrediting of aggression as a political tool, and holding Russia accountable for its acts of aggression and war crimes is the only possible path to a sustainable peace,” she said.
Kallas also underlined that Russia has the capacity to inflict damage on various fronts, not only across Europe but also beyond. “Nor can we forget the increasing cooperation between Russia and China. We need to stand together against it and together, we also need to take the message to Beijing that China’s support for Russia’s war against Ukraine has an impact on our relations,” she said.
The Prime Minister assured that Estonia firmly supports closer cooperation between NATO and the EU. “Developing Europe’s defence capabilities will make the Euro–Atlantic area more secure. In today’s security environment, additional efforts are needed by all,” said Kallas.
