“The opening of the Israeli Embassy in Tallinn marks a new chapter in our partnership and dialogue,” Tsahkna said, noting that Estonia opened its embassy in Tel Aviv 16 years ago.
Speaking about Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, Tsahkna emphasised that the outcome of the war has global implications for stability, not just for European security. “We cannot and must not allow Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty to be trampled,” he stated. “Peace must be just and lasting — which means increasing pressure on the aggressor and supporting the victim.” He encouraged further direct assistance to Ukraine.
Discussing the Middle East, Tsahkna affirmed Estonia’s support for a two-state solution and Israel’s right to self-defence, while condemning terrorism in all its forms. “At the same time, Israel must ensure full compliance with international law, including the protection of civilians and unhindered access to humanitarian aid.”
Estonia supports the peace plan of U.S. President Donald Trump, as well as the efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey to achieve peace in the region. Tsahkna stated that Trump’s peace plan must be implemented unconditionally. He welcomed progress in delivering humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza and called on Hamas to unconditionally release all deceased hostages. “Last month, we celebrated with Israel when the terrorist organisation Hamas released all surviving hostages. We continue to demand the handover of all remaining deceased hostages,” Tsahkna said.
“The EU must also contribute to the implementation of the Gaza peace plan to support regional stability and help rebuild Gaza,” Tsahkna added.
In connection with the embassy opening, an Israeli business delegation visited Estonia, and an Estonia–Israel business forum was held to explore cooperation opportunities and facilitate meetings between entrepreneurs. The event at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs brought together nearly 50 companies, mainly from the defence industry, cybersecurity, and ICT sectors. The forum was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Israeli Embassy.
