Border treaty ratification shows Russia is not aggressive, says new ambassador to Tallinn
Aleksandr Petrov, who was appointed as the new Russian ambassador to Estonia a month ago, said Russia has no aggressive intentions and ratification of the border treaty is proof of this.
In a meeting with journalists, Petrov said one of his tasks is to widen the legal relations between the two nations, which will include more treaties and contracts, rus.err.ee reported.
He said that despite the air of distrust there are a number of positive moments, which will allow relations to be strengthened. He said he arrived in Tallinn just after the foreign ministers of Estonia and Russia met in New York, and this gave him hope that it its possible to work in a constructively.
Speaking about the Soviet occupation reparations, Petrov said there is little to worry about as Urmas Reinsalu, who represents Estonia in the project, is not backed by the rest of Estonia's government.
Petrov said he hopes the ratification of the border treaty will pass without any bad surprises, adding that he hopes this will end accusations that Russia has aggressive plans with Estonia.
Speaking about NATO expansion, Petrov said he wants to see Russia's opinions taken into account.
He said his message to the local media is that one should be free of cliches when describing Russia. He said he will meet Estonian media regularly, unlike the previous ambassador who only gave interviews on rare occasions.
The border treaty between the two nations was signed in February 2014, but is yet to enter force as the two parliaments have not ratified the treaty. According to reports, this could take place before the end of the year or at the beginning of 2016.
Editor: J.M. Laats