Estonian PM discussed security issues with German Chancellor Angela Merkel
During Wednesday's meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Estonian Prime Minister Taavi Rõivas mainly focused on the security field.
The main topics discussed at the meeting were the NATO Warsaw Summit taking place in July and the European Security as a whole, the government's press service said. Roivas told Merkel that Estonia's goal at the summit is to achieve an increased and permanent allied presence in the region.
"We discussed the need to increase the alliance's deterrence and defense capability. Germany's readiness to send its units to the Baltic region on a regular basis substantially increases the region's security," Roivas was quoted by spokespeople as saying. He added that Estonia and Germany see the security situation mostly in the same way.
Roivas recognized Merkel's leading role in solving European crises. "2015 was a year of crises in Europe and chancellor Merkel has been very important in finding common solutions for them," Roivas said. "Germany has a determining impact on European unity and on finding political solutions for the security, economic and other issues Europe is facing," he added.
Roivas and Merkel also discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. "I stressed that from the viewpoint of the unity of the West and Europe the Ukraine conflict is still an issue of critical importance," Roivas said. He added that sanctions against Russia must continue until the Minsk agreements have been fully fulfilled.
The prime minister also brought up the topic of energy security, stressing the importance of the EU energy union and the continued need for the diversification of energy sources.
In addition, the two leaders discussed the migration topic. The migration crisis has a long-term effect on Europe and one of the biggest challenges regarding it is keeping Europe open.