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President of the Republic appointed Marina Kaljurand to the office of Minister of Foreign Affairs

15.07.2015

President Toomas Hendrik Ilves today signed the decision to appoint Marina Kaljurand to the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs at the proposal of the Prime Minister, Taavi Rõivas.

"I am pleased to see my colleague of more than 20 years become Minister of Foreign Affairs," said President Ilves, adding that Marina Kaljurand is a seasoned diplomat and deserving of the position.

Since the restoration of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Estonia, Kaljurand has served as an ambassador in both Moscow and Washington; most recently, she served as the Deputy Secretary General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Estonia.

The Head of State recalled that Estonia hoped to become a member of the European Union and NATO 20 years ago; today, as members of these influential international organisations, we must act accordingly to be worthy of their membership.

Having received significant assistance from the European Union, we must now ourselves contribute because many others nations are today looking towards Estonia for support and assistance, President Ilves said.

"When in Europe, we must act as Europeans," the Head of State assured.

He emphasised that international meetings are not the only components of the work of a Minister of Foreign Affairs, as they also include domestic explanations regarding the choices made by Estonia and the European Union – such as the Greek debt and refugee crises.

As Marina Kaljurand was being appointed to the office of Minister of Foreign Affairs, President Ilves released Keit Pentus-Rosimannus, who had tendered her resignation, from the office of Minister of Foreign Affairs.

"I wish to extend my thanks to Keit Pentus-Rosimannus, who did a fine job at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; we must maintain the sprit she created there," relayed the Head of State.

Office of the President
Public Relations Department