Prime ministers of Estonia, Luxembourg discuss digital cooperation
Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas and Luxembourgish counterpart Xavier Bettel discussed the development of bilateral cooperation, including the intensification of digital cooperation through joint projects, at a meeting in Tallinn on Friday.
"Estonia and Luxembourg have much in common — for example common views on economic and IT-related matters," spokespeople for the government quoted Ratas as saying.
"Digital Europe is among the key priorities of the Estonian presidency [of the EU]," he continued. "We wish to bring up the digital aspect in almost all EU Council formats so as to advance the EU's digital dimension as a whole. In this, Estonia sees a partner with great potential in Luxembourg, with whom we are developing close businesslike ties."
Estonian experts and enterprises are ready to share their know-how and experiences with e-services with Luxembourg and all others interested in it, he noted.
According to Ratas, a recently signed memorandum of understanding with Luxembourg on the establishment of a virtual data embassy was a good example of the two countries' productive cooperation. "A data embassy will enable Estonia to store the data and information systems needed for the functioning of the state abroad so that they are under our control and within our legal space to ensure the digital and overall continuity of our state," he explained. "This is a novel solution worldwide. Estonia has thus once again emerged as a pioneer in digital things, this time in partnership with Luxembourg." The Estonian prime minister thanked his Bettel for his personal contribution to the project.
"All of these projects will help the Estonian and Luxembourgish economies grow and bring prosperity to both countries," Ratas noted, adding that digital solutions will help all of Europe move forward.
The two prime ministers also discussed the future of the EU in connection with celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of the Treaties of Rome. Ratas emphasized that it was important to better explain to European citizens what the EU does and how it affects their everyday lives and broadens their opportunities. "Next week's events in Rome are bound to give a strong signal about the future of Europe," he said.
Following their meeting, Ratas and Bettel visited the e-Estonia Showroom, where they received an overview of Estonian e-solutions and -services.
Bettel also became an e-resident of Estonia.
Editor: Aili Vahtla
Source: BNS