Estonian president to take part in Munich Security Conference

TALLINN - Estonian President Alar Karis is to attend the Munich Security Conference on Friday and Saturday, where he is scheduled to meet with world leaders to discuss the future of European security, emphasize the need for continued support for Ukraine, and take part in a panel analyzing the role of small states in international security governance.

In his speeches and meetings, the Estonian head of state will stress the importance of maintaining the West's unified and consistent support for Ukraine and strengthening the international security framework to ensure long-term peace and stability in Europe and beyond.

On Friday, Karis will speak at the discussion "Spotlight on the Power of Small States," which will focus on the influence and opportunities of small nations in security matters. The panel will also feature Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, Slovenian Deputy Prime Minister Tanja Fajon, and Liechtenstein's Foreign Minister Dominique Hasler. The discussion will be moderated by Chatham House director and CEO Bronwen Maddox.

On Saturday, the president will take part in several discussions related to Ukraine. He will deliver a speech at the YES (Yalta European Strategy) panel "Your Country First -- Win With Us," which will focus on Ukraine's defense capabilities, the role of major powers, including the new US administration, and solutions for ensuring long-term stability for Ukraine and Europe.

Other panel participants include Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Gen. Keith Kellogg, and the head of the Ukrainian presidential office Andriy Yermak. The discussion will be moderated by The Economist editor-in-chief Zanny Minton Beddoes. The session will be streamed live at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lcdvfkCY6Y.

On the sidelines of the conference, Karis will hold bilateral meetings with several heads of state and high-ranking officials, including Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, and Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili. He will also attend the Ewald von Kleist Award ceremony.

The Munich Security Conference is one of the world's most influential security policy forums, bringing together heads of state, representatives of international organizations, and experts to discuss global security challenges.