Swedish, Estonian defense ministers in cooperation talks in Tallinn
Swedish Minister of Defense Peter Hultqvist said a new treaty signed between Sweden and NATO could lead to anti-submarine military exercises.
Hultqvist's Estonian counterpart, Sven Mikser, said Sweden is ready to contribute to increase the region's security and is a partner for Estonia in defense matters.
“Estonia has a very similar understanding of Sweden when it comes to wider security and we share an understanding, based on common values, of European and Baltic Sea security,” Mikser said.
The Swedish government is not interested in joining NATO at this point but is ready for more cooperation, for example helping NATO in its mission in Libya.
The Swedish-led Nordic Battle Group, which will include 50 Estonian soldiers, is an example of the cooperation between countries. Mikser said the unit should be able to take part in battles, if needed.
Hultqvist was in Tallinn for an official visit, also meeting Jürgen Ligi, the new chair of the National Defense Committee.
Speaking about military aid to Ukraine, Mikser said Estonia will help the nation in the field of cyber security, adding that Estonia is a small nation but can make a difference and help Ukraine defend itself in that field.