Prime Minister Kallas at the meeting with the prime minister of Kosovo: The effects of Russian aggression go beyond Ukraine

According to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Estonia's experience in building democracy was discussed at the meeting. "We have plenty of valuable experiences to share, especially in the field of e-governance and the rule of law. The building of democracy is an ongoing process and Estonia is working on it every day," Kallas said. The prime minister added that she is pleased to see that the relations between the two countries are excellent and that Estonia has a practical cooperation with Kosovo. "For example, Estonian experts are assisting in the preparation of Kosovo's e-state strategy. As the next step, it is important to start implementing the strategy," said Kallas.

At the meeting, Prime Minister Kallas emphasised Estonia's full support to Kosovo's Euro-Atlantic path. "Let me also reaffirm our support to your visa liberalisation with the EU and we hope that it will be achieved soon," said Kallas.

"Close and good relations between the European Union and the Western Balkans have become even more important in the current security situation. The aggression of Russia concerns all of us. Its consequences go far beyond Ukraine. Countries in the Western Balkans are well aware of Russia's long-standing attempts to destabilise the region," Kallas said. "We will soon meet at the EU-Western Balkans Summit in Tirana. With this summit, we are sending a strong message of support to the Western Balkan countries, showing that the EU is a close friend who they can rely on," she added.

Prime Minister Kallas also commended the Prime Minister of Kosovo for Kosovo's strong support to Ukraine. "Kosovo has joined with all sanctions imposed by the European Union on Russia, provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine, and offered asylum to Ukrainian war refugees," she said.

Kallas stressed that it is in the interests of all of us to stop Russia's aggression in Ukraine. "The aggressor will not stop until it is stopped. That is why we must continue to support Ukraine with more arms, humanitarian aid, and financial support. This is the road to peace," she explained. "The free world must also ensure that Russia's crimes of aggression, crimes against humanity, and possible genocide will be punished. Russia must compensate for the war damage caused. The Kremlin must pay for every building, road, and bridge that has been destroyed," she added.

Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/stenbockimaja/albums/72177720303775660/with/52507802819/

Press statement by Prime Minister Kallas (in English):https://valitsus.ee/en/news/remarks-prime-minister-kaja-kallas-press-conference-prime-minister-republic-kosovo-albin-kurti