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The President of the Republic met with the President of the United States

28.11.2006

At today’s meeting between the President of Estonia Toomas Hendrik Ilves and the President of the United States George W. Bush in Kadriorg, the Heads of State focused on the allied relationship of the two countries, and their joint activity in the promotion of democracy.

“One of the main messages of our discussions today was a message of freedom for those countries, who, like us, have chosen the road to freedom and democracy and who will not succumb to the pressure of any of their neighbors,” said President Ilves. “We must not waver in our support for these countries, and we will not waver, even when some of our allies are losing their faith in success.”

The Heads of State spoke at length about the situation in Georgia and Ukraine, as well as in the Balkans.

Presidents Ilves and Bush also spoke about the situation in Iraq and Afghanistan, where Estonian and American troops are participating in foreign missions.

“Afghanistan, as the largest NATO foreign operation, is also the greatest challenge for the alliance in the post-Cold War period. We will do everything to help it succeed,” declared the Estonian Head of State. “We understand the danger posed by failed countries, not only to their neighbors, but to the world as a whole, as was proven by September 11, 2001.”

The Estonian and American Heads of State declared their support for a NATO that will unite democracies, the so-called Open Door Policy.

“No one should perceive democracy on its border as a threat to security or autocracy as a guarantee of stability,” said President Ilves.

The Heads of State also discussed cooperation between Europe and the United States, as well as the need to support liberal economic policies. The situation in Iran was also discussed.

President Bush also raised the possibility of waiving visas for travel to the United States for Estonian citizens, saying the problem is being considered.

Public Relations Department of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, 28 November 2006