Estonian Embassy Celebrates its 99th Independence Day
February 24 is the National day of Estonia. It marks the anniversary of the Estonian Declaration of Independence. At the Radisson Blu Iveria, the Estonian Embassy to Georgia celebrated the near centennial of this remarkable date. Interestingly, both Georgia and Estonia gained independence in 1918, and regained it in 1991.
After the anthems of Estonia and Georgia played the Estonian Ambassador to Georgia Kai Kaarelson greeted the distinguished guests:
“Our independence during these one hundred years has not gone uninterrupted. In 1991, when we regained our independence, I was 17. I remember those times were very hard for everyone I knew[…]. What my country is today has not happened by miracle. It was a group effort. It is the result of very hard work. This is actually what makes me very proud of my country and my countrymen. In July of 2017, Estonia will take over the presidency of European Union. Two of our main priorities will be advancing the digital agenda of the European Union and strengthening the Eastern partnership. I think both of these are natural choices for us. The government here has swiftly adapted to the visa-liberalization action plan. Progressing in DCFTA is also a steady process. The same goes for the process of joining NATO. The substantial NATO-Georgia package is being implemented swiftly. But the global security environment is growing more and more complex. We, Estonians, are of course standing with our partners. We are standing for the principles of international rule of law, the inviolability of borders and territorial integrity. Georgia has responsibly contributed to international security, for example, in peacekeeping missions. Estonia is doing its part by helping Georgia in [meeting] the standards of EU and NATO. Sometimes, people ask about our relationship. It is a very special story. Since, 1970-80s, a lot of Estonians have been [visiting] Georgia for their honeymoon or as tourists. A lot of Georgians started Tartu University, served as military [etc]. So, there is no need to explain to Georgians where and what Estonia is, and vice versa.
Mikheil Janelidze, Minister of Foreign Affairs, was the official speaker from Georgia. He offered the following address:
“Your excellencies! Ladies and Gentlemen! It is a great pleasure to be here today, to celebrate the independence day of Republic of Estonia, our great friends and a really exemplary country. Let me express our most sincere congratulations to you and your government! I wish you peace, security and prosperity. Our country is approaching the centenary of the historic date, when almost one hundred years ago, our predecessors essentially started new chapters in the history of our states. This has been a century full of challenges and struggles, as well as of bright moments and victories. Estonia is a country that has undertaken an extraordinary journey and reached victories out of that. As a result, today we witness an independent and strong country that has regained its rightful place in the European and Euro-Atlantic family and became a full-fledged member of the free world. With dedication and hard work, Estonia managed to be an example of how a small state, despite its size, can make a difference on the global stage. Estonia has transformed itself into a democratic, open and innovative society, developing E-services and information and communication technologies - areas where Estonia has become one of the most advanced countries in the world[…]. This year is of special significance for your country. As [the ambassador] mentioned, you are assuming the presidency of the European Union in the second half of the year. Let me wish you a success in achieving goals and good presidency!”
The Minister emphasized that this is an important year for the both countries since they are celebrating their 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations, during which they’ve established an exemplary friendship. In his words, today Georgia and Estonia are strategic partners, sharing common understanding. Mr. Janelidze thanked Estonia for its support of Georgia’s European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations. “I am glad to see that Estonian experts are advising us in the reforms’ implementation process in many fields. At the same time, I have to mention that we have dynamic high level exchanges. We just met in Munich, with the Prime Minister and President of Estonia, where we had an excellent meeting. We cooperate in all areas. We are happy for [that] and are looking forward to more person-to-person exchanges and cultural ties.”
by Maka Lomadze