Estonia's&nbsp;Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna engaged in an exclusive conversation with WION&nbsp;on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Friday (Feb 22). His visit to India has sparked significant interest and discussion, particularly regarding the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations.&nbsp;

WION's Sidhant Sibal interviewed the foreign minister to explore the developing relationship between Estonia and India, along with&nbsp;urgent global issues.

Here is the transcript of the interview:

WION: How do you see your India visit? What kind of engagements are you expecting here in Delhi?

Tsahkna: It is very important that we are here together with Nordic Baltic foreign ministers as a group. There are two sides to what I'm doing here. First is security and international situation, with Russia committing aggression to Ukraine, affecting us all. We have common ground as Russia targets democracies. India, being the largest democracy, has a crucial role.

Additionally, India has the...fastest-growing economy, so bilateral cooperation is vital. We've had meetings at the governmental level, including Invest India and...focusing on IT and defence industry, where Estonia excels.

Cybersecurity is another area of expertise, with 99 per cent of our public services online. We're eager to share our experience with India and collaborate on renewable energy and defense solutions.

India's 'Make in India' initiative presents opportunities for our companies to invest and scale up due to the vast Indian market."

WION: You mentioned drones. What kind of cooperation are you seeking regarding drones, given their increasing significance globally?

Tsahkna: Drones are the future, useful not only in military but also in agriculture and other sectors. Estonian companies have innovated in this area, drawing from real war situations like Ukraine. We're keen to share this expertise. 
 
As a bordering country to Russia, Estonia has developed smart border solutions, aligning with India's needs. Despite the difference in scale, we share common values of democracy and freedom. The world, post-Russian aggression, needs democracies to stand together.

WION: There are cyber[security] exercises between India and Estonia. Can you elaborate on that and how the opening of the Indian mission [in Estonia] has strengthened the relationship?

Tsahkna: Cybersecurity exercises are crucial, with NATO designating Estonia as a cyber defence centre. India's participation in such exercises fosters practical cooperation. The opening of the Indian embassy in Estonia enhances bilateral ties significantly. It facilitates direct communication, especially on security and business matters, and promotes educational exchanges due to Estonia's strong universities. Plans have been made to leverage this opportunity effectively.

WION: What is this exercise? Is this a NATO exercise or is this an Estonia-led&nbsp;exercise?

Tsahkna:&nbsp;This is an international exercise, so there is no point in exercising alone. As I mentioned earlier, the competent centre&nbsp;for cyber defence is in Estonia. Therefore, we engage in many practical activities together.

WION:&nbsp;When it comes to the opening up of the mission, how has that helped in strengthening the relationship?

Tsahkna:&nbsp;India has now opened embassies in all three Baltic countries, which is a significant development as it represents the highest level of representation in Estonia, as well as in Latvia and Lithuania.

This not only strengthens international relations but also enhances security cooperation and fosters business relations and specific projects.

Additionally, it facilitates educational exchanges, particularly with Estonia's strong universities, which are appealing to many Indian students. The decision to open an embassy in Estonia holds great value, and plans have been made to maximise the benefits of this initiative.

Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna engaged in an exclusive conversation with WION on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Friday (Feb 22).

Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna engaged in an exclusive conversation with WION on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Friday (Feb 22). His visit to India has sparked significant interest and discussion, particularly regarding the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations. WION's Sidhant Sibal interviewed the foreign minister to explore the developing relationship between Estonia and India, along with urgent global issues. Here is the transcript of the interview: WION: How do you see your India visit? What kind of engagements are you expecting here in Delhi? Tsahkna: It is very important that we are here together with Nordic Baltic foreign ministers as a group. There are two sides to what I'm doing here. First is security and international situation, with Russia committing aggression to Ukraine, affecting us all. We have common ground as Russia targets democracies. India, being the largest democracy, has a crucial role. Additionally, India has the...fastest-growing economy, so bilateral cooperation is vital. We've had meetings at the governmental level, including Invest India and...focusing on IT and defence industry, where Estonia excels. Cybersecurity is another area of expertise, with 99 per cent of our public services online. We're eager to share our experience with India and collaborate on renewable energy and defense solutions. India's 'Make in India' initiative presents opportunities for our companies to invest and scale up due to the vast Indian market." WION: You mentioned drones. What kind of cooperation are you seeking regarding drones, given their increasing significance globally? Tsahkna: Drones are the future, useful not only in military but also in agriculture and other sectors. Estonian companies have innovated in this area, drawing from real war situations like Ukraine. We're keen to share this expertise. As a bordering country to Russia, Estonia has developed smart border solutions, aligning with India's needs. Despite the difference in scale, we share common values of democracy and freedom. The world, post-Russian aggression, needs democracies to stand together. WION: There are cyber[security] exercises between India and Estonia. Can you elaborate on that and how the opening of the Indian mission [in Estonia] has strengthened the relationship? Tsahkna: Cybersecurity exercises are crucial, with NATO designating Estonia as a cyber defence centre. India's participation in such exercises fosters practical cooperation. The opening of the Indian embassy in Estonia enhances bilateral ties significantly. It facilitates direct communication, especially on security and business matters, and promotes educational exchanges due to Estonia's strong universities. Plans have been made to leverage this opportunity effectively. WION: What is this exercise? Is this a NATO exercise or is this an Estonia-led exercise? Tsahkna: This is an international exercise, so there is no point in exercising alone. As I mentioned earlier, the competent centre for cyber defence is in Estonia. Therefore, we engage in many practical activities together. WION: When it comes to the opening up of the mission, how has that helped in strengthening the relationship? Tsahkna: India has now opened embassies in all three Baltic countries, which is a significant development as it represents the highest level of representation in Estonia, as well as in Latvia and Lithuania. This not only strengthens international relations but also enhances security cooperation and fosters business relations and specific projects. Additionally, it facilitates educational exchanges, particularly with Estonia's strong universities, which are appealing to many Indian students. The decision to open an embassy in Estonia holds great value, and plans have been made to maximise the benefits of this initiative.

Exclusive: Estonia's foreign minister talks drones, cybersecurity, and global trade in interview with WION

Estonia Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna speaks to WION on India-Estonia relationship. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal at the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Estonia Foreign Minister said, 'India is the biggest economy and growing economy. So bilaterally as well we have had many meetings on the governmental level but also in Invest India, Defense Ministry and many others because our cooperation bilaterally is going to be more precise and more active and mainly in IT sector and defense industry. Because Estonia is the leading country in the world for IT and Cyber security. 99% of our public services are online. So this is some experience we can share as well to India.' Watch to know more!

Estonia Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna speaks to WION on India-Estonia relationship

Moscow is gearing up for a potential armed conflict with Western countries in the next decade. This is what Estonia's foreign intelligence service has claimed the report also notes a significant rise in Russia's military production of artillery and armored vehicles that could enhance Russia's ability to continue fighting. Watch to know more!

Estonia says Russia is preparing for armed conflict with the West

Russia has issued an arrest warrant against the prime minister of estonia. Marking the nation's first ever criminal case against an acting head of a foreign government. Meanwhile estonian intelligence has warned against russia's potential military conflict with nato in the next decade.

Russia puts Estonian PM on wanted list

Front-line states of NATO are already getting ready for the next conflict with Moscow.

The military ministers of Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia approved a new plan in January to construct a vast network of fortifications with the goal of preventing and defeating the kind of Russian attack that has long been feared in northeastern Europe.

With 210 miles of border with Russia, most of which is thought to be nearly inaccessible due to dense forests and wetlands, Estonian officials stated their government is building over 600 bunkers in the hopes of averting a hypothetical Moscow invasion and takeover.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-urges-member-nations-to-ramp-up-ammunition-production-for-ukraine-562030" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-urges-member-nations-to-ramp-up-ammunition-production-for-ukraine-562030&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivhei6pqGEAxW4avUHHffwBs4QFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2OeeKdGMv4s9VRBLb75XDZ" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-urges-member-nations-to-ramp-up-ammunition-production-for-ukraine-562030" target="_blank">NATO&nbsp;chief urges member nations to ramp up ammunition</a>

"Regaining territory that has already been gained is very difficult and comes at significant cost of human life, time, and material resources," stated Susan Lilleväli, undersecretary for defence preparation at the Estonian Ministry of Defence. "The war in Ukraine has demonstrated this." During a press event on Thursday, she discussed the 60 million euro ($64.7 million) project.

Lilleväli stated, "We need physical installations in addition to weaponry, ammunition, and troops to protect our countries efficiently."

Baltic military and civilian authorities have bitterly denounced their role as a trip wire for NATO. The alliance underwent a strategic shift in response to Russia's disastrous invasion and occupation of large areas of Ukraine in 2022, as the Baltic states witnessed the atrocities committed against Ukrainians in Mariupol, the suburbs of Kyiv, and other places.

According to the NATO tripwire plan, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas declared in 2022 that Russian forces would "wipe&nbsp;from the map" her country.

"With the purpose of defending every inch of allied land at all times," Lilleväli told reporters on Thursday, the new defensive line in the Baltic is in keeping with NATO's modified "forward defence posture and deterrence by denial" policy.

"The primary objective of these installations is to prevent military conflict in our region by altering the enemy's calculation," stated Lilleväli. "As the battle in Ukraine has shown, counter-mobility and fortification tactics are absolutely viable even in this century, and have played a big part in wars in our region in history, for example in Finland."

"In the event of military incursions, the installations should impede the enemy's march already at our borders and deny them the opportunity to move fast in the territory of the Baltic countries," she stated.

In order to "avoid leaving any loopholes, as the security situation in our region does not show any signs of improving at this point," Lilleväli stated that coordination with Lithuania and Latvia is necessary.

Planners in Lithuania will pay close attention to the Suwałki Gap. This narrow stretch of territory separates Belarus from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, which if occupied would cut off the Baltic republics from Poland and the other western European allies.

The boundaries of Narva in the north and Võru in the south will be the focal points of Estonia's defenses.

The Estonians have a strong defensive barrier thanks to Lake Peipus, which makes up a large portion of their border with Russia. According to Lilleväli, the main goal is to make sure that everyone is prepared "to combat the enemy from the first meter and first hour."

In Ukraine, Russia's ground soldiers have suffered severe mauling. According to European sources who previously spoke with Newsweek, the forces tasked with spearheading any potential invasion of the Baltic republics are among those who have sustained significant casualties—up to 40 per cent in some circumstances.

The Russian military is more seasoned despite being degraded. NATO officials have frequently stated that Moscow continues to represent a serious threat and will require some time to reassemble.

Thus far, 600 bunkers have been planned by Estonian officials. These will be supplied by adjacent munitions and equipment stockpiles. Mock-ups provided to Newsweek show that the majority will be cuboid concrete "cellars" buried in the ground with a firing trench that is partially concealed and runs perpendicular to the entrance.

Testing is scheduled to begin later this year, and prototypes are now being built. Starting in early 2025, Estonia aims to erect its first bunkers.

According to Lilleväli's consultant, reserves Lieutenant Colonel Kaido Tiitus, "it's basically a cellar that is built underneath." The bunkers, which will have a total area of about 35 square meters (377 square feet), can accommodate 10 soldiers each along with all necessary supplies. According to Tiitus, they will be made for soldiers to "dwell in" for extended periods of time and to "offer protection against the enemy's artillery projectiles."

(With inputs from agencies)

Front-line states of NATO are already getting ready for the next conflict with Moscow. The military ministers of Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia approved a new plan in January to construct a vast network of fortifications with the goal of preventing and defeating the kind of Russian attack that has long been feared in northeastern Europe.

Front-line states of NATO are already getting ready for the next conflict with Moscow. The military ministers of Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia approved a new plan in January to construct a vast network of fortifications with the goal of preventing and defeating the kind of Russian attack that has long been feared in northeastern Europe. With 210 miles of border with Russia, most of which is thought to be nearly inaccessible due to dense forests and wetlands, Estonian officials stated their government is building over 600 bunkers in the hopes of averting a hypothetical Moscow invasion and takeover. Also Read: NATO chief urges member nations to ramp up ammunition "Regaining territory that has already been gained is very difficult and comes at significant cost of human life, time, and material resources," stated Susan Lilleväli, undersecretary for defence preparation at the Estonian Ministry of Defence. "The war in Ukraine has demonstrated this." During a press event on Thursday, she discussed the 60 million euro ($64.7 million) project. Lilleväli stated, "We need physical installations in addition to weaponry, ammunition, and troops to protect our countries efficiently." Baltic military and civilian authorities have bitterly denounced their role as a trip wire for NATO. The alliance underwent a strategic shift in response to Russia's disastrous invasion and occupation of large areas of Ukraine in 2022, as the Baltic states witnessed the atrocities committed against Ukrainians in Mariupol, the suburbs of Kyiv, and other places. According to the NATO tripwire plan, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas declared in 2022 that Russian forces would "wipe from the map" her country. "With the purpose of defending every inch of allied land at all times," Lilleväli told reporters on Thursday, the new defensive line in the Baltic is in keeping with NATO's modified "forward defence posture and deterrence by denial" policy. "The primary objective of these installations is to prevent military conflict in our region by altering the enemy's calculation," stated Lilleväli. "As the battle in Ukraine has shown, counter-mobility and fortification tactics are absolutely viable even in this century, and have played a big part in wars in our region in history, for example in Finland." "In the event of military incursions, the installations should impede the enemy's march already at our borders and deny them the opportunity to move fast in the territory of the Baltic countries," she stated. In order to "avoid leaving any loopholes, as the security situation in our region does not show any signs of improving at this point," Lilleväli stated that coordination with Lithuania and Latvia is necessary. Planners in Lithuania will pay close attention to the Suwałki Gap. This narrow stretch of territory separates Belarus from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, which if occupied would cut off the Baltic republics from Poland and the other western European allies. The boundaries of Narva in the north and Võru in the south will be the focal points of Estonia's defenses. The Estonians have a strong defensive barrier thanks to Lake Peipus, which makes up a large portion of their border with Russia. According to Lilleväli, the main goal is to make sure that everyone is prepared "to combat the enemy from the first meter and first hour." In Ukraine, Russia's ground soldiers have suffered severe mauling. According to European sources who previously spoke with Newsweek, the forces tasked with spearheading any potential invasion of the Baltic republics are among those who have sustained significant casualties—up to 40 per cent in some circumstances. The Russian military is more seasoned despite being degraded. NATO officials have frequently stated that Moscow continues to represent a serious threat and will require some time to reassemble. Thus far, 600 bunkers have been planned by Estonian officials. These will be supplied by adjacent munitions and equipment stockpiles. Mock-ups provided to Newsweek show that the majority will be cuboid concrete "cellars" buried in the ground with a firing trench that is partially concealed and runs perpendicular to the entrance. Testing is scheduled to begin later this year, and prototypes are now being built. Starting in early 2025, Estonia aims to erect its first bunkers. According to Lilleväli's consultant, reserves Lieutenant Colonel Kaido Tiitus, "it's basically a cellar that is built underneath." The bunkers, which will have a total area of about 35 square meters (377 square feet), can accommodate 10 soldiers each along with all necessary supplies. According to Tiitus, they will be made for soldiers to "dwell in" for extended periods of time and to "offer protection against the enemy's artillery projectiles." (With inputs from agencies)

NATO states plan to construct hundreds of bunkers to thwart Russian invasion

The Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky was in Estonia as part of his two-day visit to the Baltic states. The trip was aimed to stop War fatigue amongst Ukraine's Western allies and also to secure more financial and military aid for the country.

Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky thanks Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia supporting its war

Estonia's Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology Tiit Riisalo has lauded India's IT revolution and said that his country sees India as a "powerful IT centre and one of the centres&nbsp;of gravity".

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he pointed to his country's digital identification ID and India's Aadhar. The minister who is also the Minister of Economic Affairs pointed to how "countries like India are instrumentally important for Estonia...countries who share the same values, the same basic values and in this context, I mainly mean you know, rule of law, democracies need to stick together". The minister is in India to attend the 'Vibrant Gujarat&nbsp;Summit'.

&nbsp;

Here are the excerpts of the exclusive interview.

Sidhant Sibal: What will be the key focus of your India visit?

Tiit Riisalo: Yes, of course. If you look a little bit into the broader picture, the relations with countries like India are instrumentally important for Estonia, because if you look around ourselves in a in a global context, we understand very well that the countries who share the same values, the same basic values and in this context, I mainly mean you know, rule of law, democracies need to stick together and work together and communicate. And for this, not only you know reading what happens in the newspapers or even having the zoom or web conferences is not enough, you need human contact. And that's why we had to deepen this mutual understanding. And we certainly find India, in the coming years one of the major global players who shares our values so of course, we want to have good, good working relationships, diplomatically, economy wise, but also as a minister of economy, I represent delegation of the Estonian companies and as a small export oriented country, Estonia is very happy to scale our businesses outside Estonia and outside EU and we hope also Indian companies take interest in in Estonia. Our market size as a Republic of Estonia is not that big, but we are a member of the EU, one of the outstanding members of the EU and its market of 500 million people. So we hope also from the Indian side to create interest to invest in our region.

Sidhant Sibal: How is India's IT revolution?

Tiit Riisalo: Estonia is a well known digital society. We made our first moves already in the end of the 90s. And we are well recognized worldwide, especially now for the efficiency of digital government. But we understand very well that just by admiring yourself in the changing world, you don't reach too far. And we definitely see India's powerful IT centre&nbsp;and one of the centres&nbsp;of gravity in this context. And from one side we are happy to share how we experience but from the other side to learn what is happening in Estonia. And again, it's also interesting for our IT companies because in IT, it's even better. You know it is much easier to scale up. And so we hope that that we find new ideas here, that India find something useful or Indian company in Estonia, but also vice versa, that that we can, maybe work mutually together in some sort of solution using then both experiences and one thing we certainly share and that most countries don't cross yet very well, I must admit is the importance of strong, singular digital identity, which opens, you know, public services which opens business opportunities, and I think definitely we will find mutual interest

Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to IT space. You have been training Indian officials if you can elaborate on that. And I believe you have with India unique cyber exercises, if you can elaborate on that as well.

Tiit Riisalo: This you know, educating of the public sector of course, is something we have to share with the world and, and we have been doing this this for years, because we believe that this shared experience based on open source software, where India has also now taken a lead which we have been preaching already for years. It's an instrumental cornerstone of democracies so that we actually make the public services not that expensive, easy to develop based on platforms, and that makes it accessible to people. You know, in public sector services, but also business wise. So we are very like minded here and certainly this is, this is also where we have shared our experience also together with our European partners. We have done some training courses which are still going on actually to sort of educate mainly the state employees, but we also look further because we need digital literacy also among you know our populations, otherwise there is no point to develop the digital services. So what concerns cyber, then we are there also I must admit, standing pretty strong on the global level. And it all started for fortunately or unfortunately, with a nuance that Estonia was target of the first major cyber attack in 2007, made to buy by unfortunately our neighbour Russia, but from there on we had to technological basis, but I think we were the first ones to recognize what importance cyber security has in the world which is actually connected to the complete IoT or internet of things. And we see it on a daily basis. And yes, we have a good working relationship and in Estonian case, we always work together with private companies because we just don't have enough people. You know, to hire everybody and in the public sector. So we work together with the private sector and the private sector has also more motivation to develop the services.

Sidhant Sibal: You mentioned the unique identification. When it comes to India. If you can elaborate I mean, are you looking at some kind of Indian model?

Tiit Riisalo: We both use that. We have the system in place already from the beginning of the 2000s. It's electronic identity and you can add the first one it started with you know, the ID card and the chip on it. And then there was you know, messaging based and now it is smartphone based and I think it's developing in the Indian case you use this Aadhaar system, I think so, these are basically doing the same function in a little bit different ways. But, why is it important that this you know, opens secure services, makes it possible to offer secure services. And this is something that we share the understanding, which enables us to work together to advance this sphere.

&nbsp;

Estonia's Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology Tiit Riisalo has lauded India's IT revolution and said that his country sees India as a "powerful IT centre and one of the centres of gravity".

Estonia's Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology Tiit Riisalo has lauded India's IT revolution and said that his country sees India as a "powerful IT centre and one of the centres of gravity". Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he pointed to his country's digital identification ID and India's Aadhar. The minister who is also the Minister of Economic Affairs pointed to how "countries like India are instrumentally important for Estonia...countries who share the same values, the same basic values and in this context, I mainly mean you know, rule of law, democracies need to stick together". The minister is in India to attend the 'Vibrant Gujarat Summit'. Here are the excerpts of the exclusive interview. Sidhant Sibal: What will be the key focus of your India visit? Tiit Riisalo: Yes, of course. If you look a little bit into the broader picture, the relations with countries like India are instrumentally important for Estonia, because if you look around ourselves in a in a global context, we understand very well that the countries who share the same values, the same basic values and in this context, I mainly mean you know, rule of law, democracies need to stick together and work together and communicate. And for this, not only you know reading what happens in the newspapers or even having the zoom or web conferences is not enough, you need human contact. And that's why we had to deepen this mutual understanding. And we certainly find India, in the coming years one of the major global players who shares our values so of course, we want to have good, good working relationships, diplomatically, economy wise, but also as a minister of economy, I represent delegation of the Estonian companies and as a small export oriented country, Estonia is very happy to scale our businesses outside Estonia and outside EU and we hope also Indian companies take interest in in Estonia. Our market size as a Republic of Estonia is not that big, but we are a member of the EU, one of the outstanding members of the EU and its market of 500 million people. So we hope also from the Indian side to create interest to invest in our region. Sidhant Sibal: How is India's IT revolution? Tiit Riisalo: Estonia is a well known digital society. We made our first moves already in the end of the 90s. And we are well recognized worldwide, especially now for the efficiency of digital government. But we understand very well that just by admiring yourself in the changing world, you don't reach too far. And we definitely see India's powerful IT centre and one of the centres of gravity in this context. And from one side we are happy to share how we experience but from the other side to learn what is happening in Estonia. And again, it's also interesting for our IT companies because in IT, it's even better. You know it is much easier to scale up. And so we hope that that we find new ideas here, that India find something useful or Indian company in Estonia, but also vice versa, that that we can, maybe work mutually together in some sort of solution using then both experiences and one thing we certainly share and that most countries don't cross yet very well, I must admit is the importance of strong, singular digital identity, which opens, you know, public services which opens business opportunities, and I think definitely we will find mutual interest Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to IT space. You have been training Indian officials if you can elaborate on that. And I believe you have with India unique cyber exercises, if you can elaborate on that as well. Tiit Riisalo: This you know, educating of the public sector of course, is something we have to share with the world and, and we have been doing this this for years, because we believe that this shared experience based on open source software, where India has also now taken a lead which we have been preaching already for years. It's an instrumental cornerstone of democracies so that we actually make the public services not that expensive, easy to develop based on platforms, and that makes it accessible to people. You know, in public sector services, but also business wise. So we are very like minded here and certainly this is, this is also where we have shared our experience also together with our European partners. We have done some training courses which are still going on actually to sort of educate mainly the state employees, but we also look further because we need digital literacy also among you know our populations, otherwise there is no point to develop the digital services. So what concerns cyber, then we are there also I must admit, standing pretty strong on the global level. And it all started for fortunately or unfortunately, with a nuance that Estonia was target of the first major cyber attack in 2007, made to buy by unfortunately our neighbour Russia, but from there on we had to technological basis, but I think we were the first ones to recognize what importance cyber security has in the world which is actually connected to the complete IoT or internet of things. And we see it on a daily basis. And yes, we have a good working relationship and in Estonian case, we always work together with private companies because we just don't have enough people. You know, to hire everybody and in the public sector. So we work together with the private sector and the private sector has also more motivation to develop the services. Sidhant Sibal: You mentioned the unique identification. When it comes to India. If you can elaborate I mean, are you looking at some kind of Indian model? Tiit Riisalo: We both use that. We have the system in place already from the beginning of the 2000s. It's electronic identity and you can add the first one it started with you know, the ID card and the chip on it. And then there was you know, messaging based and now it is smartphone based and I think it's developing in the Indian case you use this Aadhaar system, I think so, these are basically doing the same function in a little bit different ways. But, why is it important that this you know, opens secure services, makes it possible to offer secure services. And this is something that we share the understanding, which enables us to work together to advance this sphere.

'We see India as a powerful IT centre,' says Estonia's IT minister to WION

As of January 1, 2024, Estonia has embraced a groundbreaking legal shift, officially recognising and legalising same-sex marriage. This historic move allows any two consenting adults, irrespective of gender, to enter into marriage, marking a significant departure from previous legal frameworks.

Minister of Social Protection, Signe Riisalo, a member of the Reform Party, championed the legislative change. Minister Riisalo highlighted the resolution of years of legal ambiguity, stressing that the new law provides a foundation for security and equal rights for all residents in Estonia.

"Laws provide clarity and influence our attitudes. I hope that unfounded fears will recede and that critics of this decision will realize that what is being taken away is not something that is being taken away, but something very important that is being added for many of us," she said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-catholic-church-says-document-on-blessing-same-sex-couples-does-not-apply-673137">Also read |&nbsp;Ukrainian Catholic church says Vatican document on blessing same sex couples does not apply</a>

<h2>Transition from civil partnerships to marriage</h2>

Notably, same-sex couples in Estonia have had the option to register their relationships as civil partnerships for several years prior to this development.

The recent legal amendment extends and solidifies the rights of these couples, offering them the opportunity to seamlessly transition from civil partnerships to full-fledged marriages if they wish to do so.

Marriage, whether for same-sex or opposite-sex couples, brings with it additional rights and responsibilities under Estonian law. These encompass various aspects such as benefits, property, housing, lineage, and inheritance.

Also watch |&nbsp;Thailand steps closer to legalise 'same-sex marriage'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-steps-closer-to-legalise-same-sex-marriage-672436/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The legal recognition of same-sex marriages ensures that these couples now share in these rights and obligations on an equal footing with their heterosexual counterparts.

The Estonian Parliament, known as the Riigikogu, officially passed this transformative law on June 20. After months of anticipation, the legislation has now come into effect on January 1.

(With inputs from agencies)

As of January 1, 2024, Estonia has embraced a groundbreaking legal shift, officially recognising and legalising same-sex marriage. This historic move allows any two consenting adults, irrespective of gender, to enter into marriage, marking a significant departure from previous legal frameworks.

As of January 1, 2024, Estonia has embraced a groundbreaking legal shift, officially recognising and legalising same-sex marriage. This historic move allows any two consenting adults, irrespective of gender, to enter into marriage, marking a significant departure from previous legal frameworks. Minister of Social Protection, Signe Riisalo, a member of the Reform Party, championed the legislative change. Minister Riisalo highlighted the resolution of years of legal ambiguity, stressing that the new law provides a foundation for security and equal rights for all residents in Estonia. "Laws provide clarity and influence our attitudes. I hope that unfounded fears will recede and that critics of this decision will realize that what is being taken away is not something that is being taken away, but something very important that is being added for many of us," she said in a statement. Also read | Ukrainian Catholic church says Vatican document on blessing same sex couples does not apply Transition from civil partnerships to marriage Notably, same-sex couples in Estonia have had the option to register their relationships as civil partnerships for several years prior to this development. The recent legal amendment extends and solidifies the rights of these couples, offering them the opportunity to seamlessly transition from civil partnerships to full-fledged marriages if they wish to do so. Marriage, whether for same-sex or opposite-sex couples, brings with it additional rights and responsibilities under Estonian law. These encompass various aspects such as benefits, property, housing, lineage, and inheritance. Also watch | Thailand steps closer to legalise 'same-sex marriage' The legal recognition of same-sex marriages ensures that these couples now share in these rights and obligations on an equal footing with their heterosexual counterparts. The Estonian Parliament, known as the Riigikogu, officially passed this transformative law on June 20. After months of anticipation, the legislation has now come into effect on January 1. (With inputs from agencies)

Estonia: Starting New Year’s day, same-sex couples can now get legally married

Christmas is around the corner let's take a look at how various countries are gearing up for the celebrations across the globe.

Christmas festivities around the world

The news that Kaja Kallas' husband owns a portion of a business that has continued to operate in Russia since Moscow invaded Ukraine put her under pressure to quit on Friday.

Estonia's PM under pressure to resign: Row over husband's Russian business links

Estonia PM Kallas under pressure to quit over husband's Russia ties

The Riigikogu or Estonian parliament, on Tuesday (June 20) approved a new law to legalise same-sex marriage, becoming the first Baltic nation to do so. This comes months after the incumbent Prime Minister Kaja Kallas’ liberal coalition government took office and nine years after the country recognised same-sex civil unions.&nbsp; 
 
The vote also makes&nbsp;Estonia the second central European country to pass laws legalising same-sex marriage, after Slovenia which passed&nbsp;an amendment allowing same-sex couples to marry and adopt&nbsp;last year.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened during the vote?</h2>

The vote on a marriage equality bill took place in Estonia’s parliament and passed with a majority of 55 votes in the 101-seat parliament with 34 votes against it. This came months after PM Kallas’ coalition of liberal and social democratic parties garnered a majority in the parliament back in March.&nbsp; 
 
Additionally, the incumbent&nbsp;government also survived a vote of no confidence that was tied to the amendments. While&nbsp;Estonia introduced same-sex civil unions back in 2014, it did not recognise&nbsp;adoption rights or&nbsp;parental recognition which comes with&nbsp;marriage. 
 
According to reports, there will be some 85&nbsp;amendments to the country's Family Law Act, while&nbsp;another legislation was&nbsp;introduced which would include&nbsp;same-sex marriage contracts. Additionally,&nbsp;words in the Family Law Act&nbsp;will also&nbsp;now be modified from&nbsp;"man and woman" to "two natural persons."&nbsp;

The law will come into effect&nbsp;in 2024. Notably, while same-sex marriage is legal in most countries across Western Europe that is not the case with former Soviet nations in central Europe. “My message (to central Europe) is that it’s a difficult fight, but marriage and love is something that you have to promote,” PM Kallas told Reuters, after the vote.&nbsp;

She added, “We have developed a lot in those 30 years since we have freed ourselves from the (Soviet) occupation. We are equals among same-value countries.” Meanwhile, two other Baltic nations, Latvia and Lithuania, have introduced bills to legalise same-sex marriage in their parliaments but are yet to move forward with any decision. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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It's official: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Estonia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Estonia</a> has legalised marriage equality. We join other Nordic nations with this historic decision. 
 
I'm proud of my country. We're building a society where everyone’s rights are respected and people can love freely. 
 
The decision will enter into force from 2024. <a href="https://t.co/tQJdO70eEo">pic.twitter.com/tQJdO70eEo</a>
— Kaja Kallas (@kajakallas) <a href="https://twitter.com/kajakallas/status/1671075778593792002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Estonian PM, who was also the first female leader of the country, took to Twitter and said, “It’s official: Estonia has legalised marriage equality. We join other Nordic nations with this historic decision. I’m proud of my country. We’re building a society where everyone’s rights are respected and people can love freely.”

<h2>LGBTQ+ people in Estonia</h2>

According to the Estonian Human Rights Centre, attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people have changed dramatically since 2012. In the Baltic nation with 1.3 million people, at least 53 per cent of people supported same-sex marriage in a poll conducted by the rights centre&nbsp;earlier this year. Notably, the number was up from 34 per cent back in 2021 and also six per cent higher than last year.&nbsp;

However, nearly 40 per cent of Estonians still consider homosexuality unacceptable. The poll also showed that same-sex marriage was opposed by the country’s ethnic-Russian minority which makes up a quarter of the country’s population with less than half (40 per cent) supporting it.

<h2>&nbsp;&nbsp; 
The Ukraine war factor?</h2>

In an interview with the country’s broadcaster LRT, the president of Estonia’s parliament, Lauri Hussar suggested that the change in attitude towards the LGBTQ+ people can also be attributed to the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

“I think the mood has changed also, because of what happened in Ukraine, because the war brought us to the real problems and what is really important for us,” said Hussar, as quoted by Euronews.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Riigikogu or Estonian parliament, on Tuesday (June 20) approved a new law to legalise same-sex marriage, becoming the first Baltic nation to do so. This comes months after the incumbent Prime Minister Kaja Kallas’ liberal coalition government took office and nine years after the country recognised same-sex civil unions.

The Riigikogu or Estonian parliament, on Tuesday (June 20) approved a new law to legalise same-sex marriage, becoming the first Baltic nation to do so. This comes months after the incumbent Prime Minister Kaja Kallas’ liberal coalition government took office and nine years after the country recognised same-sex civil unions. The vote also makes Estonia the second central European country to pass laws legalising same-sex marriage, after Slovenia which passed an amendment allowing same-sex couples to marry and adopt last year. What happened during the vote? The vote on a marriage equality bill took place in Estonia’s parliament and passed with a majority of 55 votes in the 101-seat parliament with 34 votes against it. This came months after PM Kallas’ coalition of liberal and social democratic parties garnered a majority in the parliament back in March. Additionally, the incumbent government also survived a vote of no confidence that was tied to the amendments. While Estonia introduced same-sex civil unions back in 2014, it did not recognise adoption rights or parental recognition which comes with marriage. According to reports, there will be some 85 amendments to the country's Family Law Act, while another legislation was introduced which would include same-sex marriage contracts. Additionally, words in the Family Law Act will also now be modified from "man and woman" to "two natural persons." The law will come into effect in 2024. Notably, while same-sex marriage is legal in most countries across Western Europe that is not the case with former Soviet nations in central Europe. “My message (to central Europe) is that it’s a difficult fight, but marriage and love is something that you have to promote,” PM Kallas told Reuters, after the vote. She added, “We have developed a lot in those 30 years since we have freed ourselves from the (Soviet) occupation. We are equals among same-value countries.” Meanwhile, two other Baltic nations, Latvia and Lithuania, have introduced bills to legalise same-sex marriage in their parliaments but are yet to move forward with any decision. It's official: #Estonia has legalised marriage equality. We join other Nordic nations with this historic decision. I'm proud of my country. We're building a society where everyone’s rights are respected and people can love freely. The decision will enter into force from 2024. pic.twitter.com/tQJdO70eEo — Kaja Kallas (@kajakallas) June 20, 2023 × The Estonian PM, who was also the first female leader of the country, took to Twitter and said, “It’s official: Estonia has legalised marriage equality. We join other Nordic nations with this historic decision. I’m proud of my country. We’re building a society where everyone’s rights are respected and people can love freely.” LGBTQ+ people in Estonia According to the Estonian Human Rights Centre, attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people have changed dramatically since 2012. In the Baltic nation with 1.3 million people, at least 53 per cent of people supported same-sex marriage in a poll conducted by the rights centre earlier this year. Notably, the number was up from 34 per cent back in 2021 and also six per cent higher than last year. However, nearly 40 per cent of Estonians still consider homosexuality unacceptable. The poll also showed that same-sex marriage was opposed by the country’s ethnic-Russian minority which makes up a quarter of the country’s population with less than half (40 per cent) supporting it. The Ukraine war factor? In an interview with the country’s broadcaster LRT, the president of Estonia’s parliament, Lauri Hussar suggested that the change in attitude towards the LGBTQ+ people can also be attributed to the war in Ukraine. “I think the mood has changed also, because of what happened in Ukraine, because the war brought us to the real problems and what is really important for us,” said Hussar, as quoted by Euronews. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Estonia becomes first Baltic nation to legalise same-sex marriage

China’s ambassador to France has sparked anger and dismay among eastern European countries after questioning the sovereignty of former Soviet countries including Ukraine. The Chinese ambassador Lu Shaye, in an interview on Friday (April 22) seemingly suggested that countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union are not really sovereign.&nbsp;

What did the Chinese envoy say?

Speaking with France’s LCI news channel, Shaye said, “These ex-USSR countries don’t have actual status in international law because there is no international agreement to materialize their sovereign status.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-raises-concerns-over-taiwan-amid-talks-with-china-585129">Philippines raises concerns over 'escalating tensions' Taiwan Strait amid talks with China</a>

The remarks were made after he was asked whether he believes Crimea is part of Ukraine or not. Crimea was annexed by Russia back in 2014. The Chinese ambassador, in this context, also said, “it depends on how you look at the problem. There's history. Crimea was Russian at the start.”

These comments have not only cast doubt not just on Ukraine which is in the midst of an invasion by Russia but on most eastern European countries which emerged as independent nations after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, many of which are also members of the European Union.

How have the countries reacted?

After the interview, France and eastern European countries released statements in response to the Chinese envoy’s comments. Paris, late Saturday, stated its “full solidarity” with all the allied countries affected, which it said had acquired their independence “after decades of oppression”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-lula-doesnt-want-to-please-anyone-over-ukraine-stance-faces-protests-amid-visit-in-lisbon-585175">Brazil’s Lula doesn’t want to ‘please anyone’ over Ukraine stance, faces protests amid visit in Lisbon</a>

The French foreign ministry also said that it had “learned with consternation about the statements from the ambassador.” It added, “It remains up to China to say whether these statements reflect its position which we hope not to be the case.”

Following the interview,&nbsp;Ukraine condemned what it called “absurd” comments from the Chinese ambassador. On Sunday, the&nbsp;Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak said the status of post-Soviet countries was “enshrined in international law”.&nbsp;

He added, "It is strange to hear an absurd version of the ‘history of Crimea’ from a representative of a country&nbsp;that is scrupulous about its 1,000-year history.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-fencing-along-russian-border-amid-security-concerns-after-joining-nato-585059">Finland fencing along Russian border amid security concerns after joining NATO</a> 
 
Meanwhile, Latvia’s foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics took to Twitter and wrote, “Remarks by the Chinese Ambassador in France concerning international law and sovereignty of nations are completely unacceptable. We expect (an) explanation from the Chinese side and complete retraction of this statement.”

Additionally, his Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis said, “If anyone is still wondering why the Baltic States don't trust China to 'broker peace in Ukraine', here's a Chinese ambassador arguing that Crimea is Russian and our countries' borders have no legal basis,” reported AFP.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Estonian foreign minister,&nbsp;Margus Tsahkna, also called Shaye's comments&nbsp;“false and a misinterpretation of history.” The three&nbsp;Baltic countries have reportedly said that they would&nbsp;each summon China’s ambassador or representative for an explanation of the envoy’s comments.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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China’s ambassador to France has sparked anger and dismay among eastern European countries after questioning the sovereignty of former Soviet countries including Ukraine.

China’s ambassador to France has sparked anger and dismay among eastern European countries after questioning the sovereignty of former Soviet countries including Ukraine. The Chinese ambassador Lu Shaye, in an interview on Friday (April 22) seemingly suggested that countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union are not really sovereign. What did the Chinese envoy say? Speaking with France’s LCI news channel, Shaye said, “These ex-USSR countries don’t have actual status in international law because there is no international agreement to materialize their sovereign status.” ALSO READ | Philippines raises concerns over 'escalating tensions' Taiwan Strait amid talks with China The remarks were made after he was asked whether he believes Crimea is part of Ukraine or not. Crimea was annexed by Russia back in 2014. The Chinese ambassador, in this context, also said, “it depends on how you look at the problem. There's history. Crimea was Russian at the start.” These comments have not only cast doubt not just on Ukraine which is in the midst of an invasion by Russia but on most eastern European countries which emerged as independent nations after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, many of which are also members of the European Union. How have the countries reacted? After the interview, France and eastern European countries released statements in response to the Chinese envoy’s comments. Paris, late Saturday, stated its “full solidarity” with all the allied countries affected, which it said had acquired their independence “after decades of oppression”. ALSO READ | Brazil’s Lula doesn’t want to ‘please anyone’ over Ukraine stance, faces protests amid visit in Lisbon The French foreign ministry also said that it had “learned with consternation about the statements from the ambassador.” It added, “It remains up to China to say whether these statements reflect its position which we hope not to be the case.” Following the interview, Ukraine condemned what it called “absurd” comments from the Chinese ambassador. On Sunday, the Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak said the status of post-Soviet countries was “enshrined in international law”. He added, "It is strange to hear an absurd version of the ‘history of Crimea’ from a representative of a country that is scrupulous about its 1,000-year history.” ALSO READ | Finland fencing along Russian border amid security concerns after joining NATO Meanwhile, Latvia’s foreign minister Edgars Rinkevics took to Twitter and wrote, “Remarks by the Chinese Ambassador in France concerning international law and sovereignty of nations are completely unacceptable. We expect (an) explanation from the Chinese side and complete retraction of this statement.” Additionally, his Lithuanian counterpart, Gabrielius Landsbergis said, “If anyone is still wondering why the Baltic States don't trust China to 'broker peace in Ukraine', here's a Chinese ambassador arguing that Crimea is Russian and our countries' borders have no legal basis,” reported AFP. The Estonian foreign minister, Margus Tsahkna, also called Shaye's comments “false and a misinterpretation of history.” The three Baltic countries have reportedly said that they would each summon China’s ambassador or representative for an explanation of the envoy’s comments. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese ambassador questions sovereignty of former Soviet countries; France, Ukraine, Baltic nations dismayed

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on Saturday said that her centre-right Reform Party has cracked a deal with two other parties to form a coalition government. The deal, as per the news agency AP, comes five weeks after the nation's general elections. Party councils of Kallas' Reform Party, the centrist Estonia 200 party and the Social Democratic Party, said that following lengthy talks, agreeing on government programs for the next four years, they would form the coalition. A formal signing of the coalition will take place on Monday, after which Kallas would hand to President Alar Karis her resignation for the current term.

“This agreement ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country,”&nbsp;who will remain as prime minister, said during a news conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/31-children-that-russia-stole-return-home-to-ukraine-580540">31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine</a>

Kallas whose party won Estonia's March 5 parliamentary elections with 31.2 per cent vote will remain the Prime Minister. She said that the agreement "ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country."

Her Reform Party as per AP was also the senior partner in the outgoing three-party government, in which it had partnered with the Social Democrats and the conservative Isamaa (Fatherland) party.

Kallas, who is the nation's first female Prime Minister, has chaired the Reform Party since 2019, and the latest Cabinet will be her third.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-loses-three-un-votes-over-ukraine-war-580431">Russia loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’</a>

The Reform party would hold 60 seat majority at the 101-seat Estonian parliament called Riigikogu. Of the 13-member Cabinet, Reform will hold seven ministerial portfolios, including the prime minister, the finance minister and the defence minister portfolios.

Estonia 200 and the Social Democrats will have three ministerial portfolios each.

As per Kallas, defence and security would top the new Cabinet's agenda. Referring to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war in Estonia's neighbourhood, she said "security is a main concern" and added that’s why the country is "increasing our defence expenditure ... in the coming years."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on Saturday said that her centre-right Reform Party has cracked a deal with two other parties to form a coalition government.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on Saturday said that her centre-right Reform Party has cracked a deal with two other parties to form a coalition government. The deal, as per the news agency AP, comes five weeks after the nation's general elections. Party councils of Kallas' Reform Party, the centrist Estonia 200 party and the Social Democratic Party, said that following lengthy talks, agreeing on government programs for the next four years, they would form the coalition. A formal signing of the coalition will take place on Monday, after which Kallas would hand to President Alar Karis her resignation for the current term. “This agreement ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country,” who will remain as prime minister, said during a news conference. Also read | 31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine Kallas whose party won Estonia's March 5 parliamentary elections with 31.2 per cent vote will remain the Prime Minister. She said that the agreement "ensures that Estonia is protected, that we can continue as an independent and self-sustaining country." Her Reform Party as per AP was also the senior partner in the outgoing three-party government, in which it had partnered with the Social Democrats and the conservative Isamaa (Fatherland) party. Kallas, who is the nation's first female Prime Minister, has chaired the Reform Party since 2019, and the latest Cabinet will be her third. Also read | Russia loses three UN elections over Ukraine war, its ‘flagrant violation of the UN Charter’ The Reform party would hold 60 seat majority at the 101-seat Estonian parliament called Riigikogu. Of the 13-member Cabinet, Reform will hold seven ministerial portfolios, including the prime minister, the finance minister and the defence minister portfolios. Estonia 200 and the Social Democrats will have three ministerial portfolios each. As per Kallas, defence and security would top the new Cabinet's agenda. Referring to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war in Estonia's neighbourhood, she said "security is a main concern" and added that’s why the country is "increasing our defence expenditure ... in the coming years." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kaja Kallas to remain Estonia's PM; Reform party, Estonia 200 party and Social Democratic party form coalition

In a first joint operation of its kind, British Royal Air Force (RAF) and German fighter jets on Tuesday (March 14) intercepted a Russian aircraft after it was identified near NATO airspace.

In a first joint operation of its kind, British Royal Air Force (RAF) and German fighter jets on Tuesday (March 14) intercepted a Russian aircraft after it was identified near NATO airspace. The stray Russian aircraft had failed to communicate with the air traffic control in Estonia. Two Typhoon jets, one British and one German, were launched to intercept the Russian Il-78 Midas refuelling plane that was flying between St Petersburg and Kaliningrad. After the Midas aircraft was escorted, the two jets were redirected to intercept an An-148 airliner that had also strayed close to the Estonian airspace. Though the interception of the enemy aircraft was routine, it was the first instance when the two countries collaborated to carry out the operation. Notably, British and German air forces are currently conducting joint NATO operations in the region. "As a fighter pilot, this was a routine business, even though I was flying alongside a German colleague," an unnamed pilot of the Typhoon squadron was quoted as saying by Sky UK. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine becomes testing ground for new-age Russian weapons × "NATO continues to form the bedrock of our collective security. This joint UK and German deployment in the Baltics clearly demonstrates our collective resolve to challenge any potential threat to NATO's borders, whilst demonstrating our combined strength," said James Heappe, UK Armed forces minister. The incident comes on the same day as the US military's European Command claimed that a Russian Su-27 jet fighter collided with an American MQ-9 Reaper drone. "Our MQ-9 aircraft was conducting routine operations in international airspace when it was intercepted and hit by a Russian aircraft, resulting in a crash and complete loss of the MQ-9," informed General James Hecker, the commander of US Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa. Read more: Russian fighter jet hits US drone over Black Sea; US calls it 'reckless' Meanwhile, the Russian side denied causing the crash and the defence ministry released a statement saying it scrambled fighter jets after detecting a US drone over the Black Sea. It remains unclear if the two accidents had any link to each other but it surely has demonstrated the increased risk of superpowers of the world colliding with each other. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian aircraft intercepted by British RAF and German jets near Estonian airspace

Estonian PM Kaja Kallas's party wins election, the most pro-Kyiv government. PM Kallas vows to keep up pressure on Russia and continue providing aid for Ukraine. Political commentator Stephen Golub joins us to discuss why the result of Estonia's election is important for Ukraine in its war with Russia.

Why is Estonia's election result important for Ukraine?

With its victory in the parliamentary vote on Sunday, the Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas should maintain its position as one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv administrations. The results, which showed the far-right EKRE party in second place with 16.1% of the vote to Kallas' liberal party's 31.5%, reflect voter concerns over growing living expenses following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Estonia General Elections 2023: Prime Minister Kallas's party secures 31.6% in polls

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas' Reform Party secures 31.6 percent of the vote versus 16.1 percent by the far-right EKRE party with 98 percent of ballots counted.

Estonia General Election 2023: PM Kallas secures big win for centre-right party

The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv, as reported by Reuters.

With 98 per cent&nbsp;of the votes tallied, the results put Kallas' liberal party in second place with 16.1 per cent of the vote behind the far-right EKRE party's 31.5 per cent, reflecting voter concerns over rising living costs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Baltic nation's pro-European direction would be cemented if Kallas, 45, is successful in putting together a coalition.

After the election, Kallas claimed that her party was in a good position to create a coalition administration that would continue to put pressure on Russia.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> Prime Minister Kaja Kallas's centre-right Reform Party won Estonia's general election by a wide margin on Sunday, according to near-complete results, beating out a far-right rival that had campaigned against further arms deliveries to Ukraine<a href="https://t.co/OxbHZNb1Bo">https://t.co/OxbHZNb1Bo</a> <a href="https://t.co/f0UbioUNSw">pic.twitter.com/f0UbioUNSw</a>
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"We ... have to invest in our security, our aggressive neighbour has not vanished and will not vanish, so we have to work with that", she told reporters at a central Tallin hotel where party supporters gathered for the evening.

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A man casts his vote during a general election in Parnu,&nbsp;Estonia&nbsp;March 5, 2023. Photo credits: Reuters

2019 saw the Reform party win an election, but the three smaller parties that eventually formed a government prevented it from taking office. It split in 2021, paving the way for Kallas to take leadership and form a coalition.

The opposition party, EKRE had pledged to reduce energy costs by resisting the switch to green energy and to avoid taking in new Ukrainian conflict refugees throughout the campaign.

The party also criticised Kallas' strategy of transferring large amounts of weaponry to Ukraine, claiming it ignored that nation's own defence requirements.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv, as reported by Reuters.

The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv, as reported by Reuters. With 98 per cent of the votes tallied, the results put Kallas' liberal party in second place with 16.1 per cent of the vote behind the far-right EKRE party's 31.5 per cent, reflecting voter concerns over rising living costs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Baltic nation's pro-European direction would be cemented if Kallas, 45, is successful in putting together a coalition. After the election, Kallas claimed that her party was in a good position to create a coalition administration that would continue to put pressure on Russia. #UPDATE Prime Minister Kaja Kallas's centre-right Reform Party won Estonia's general election by a wide margin on Sunday, according to near-complete results, beating out a far-right rival that had campaigned against further arms deliveries to Ukrainehttps://t.co/OxbHZNb1Bo pic.twitter.com/f0UbioUNSw — AFP News Agency (@AFP) March 6, 2023 × ALSO READ | Hungarian MPs plan to visit Sweden on March 7 to discuss NATO bid: Stockholm "We ... have to invest in our security, our aggressive neighbour has not vanished and will not vanish, so we have to work with that", she told reporters at a central Tallin hotel where party supporters gathered for the evening. A man casts his vote during a general election in Parnu, Estonia March 5, 2023. Photo credits: Reuters 2019 saw the Reform party win an election, but the three smaller parties that eventually formed a government prevented it from taking office. It split in 2021, paving the way for Kallas to take leadership and form a coalition. The opposition party, EKRE had pledged to reduce energy costs by resisting the switch to green energy and to avoid taking in new Ukrainian conflict refugees throughout the campaign. The party also criticised Kallas' strategy of transferring large amounts of weaponry to Ukraine, claiming it ignored that nation's own defence requirements. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Estonia elections: PM Kallas secures big win for Reform party, to continue backing Ukraine

The Russians ordered Latvia's Envoy to leave the country within two weeks and this comes after Latvia's decision earlier this week to expel Russia's Ambassador.

In solidarity withh Estonia, Latvia expelled Russian Envoy

The war continues unabated in Ukraine, NATO is looking very keenly at its Eastern Flank as part of the Baltic Tiger exercises. Nearly about 250 German and Estonian soldiers run a joint NATO exercise in Estonia.

250 German & Estonian soldiers run joint NATO drills in Estonia

Nearly 2,900 reservists and volunteers from Estonia, a neighbour of Russia, are participating in a six-day snap exercise as an apparent counter-move to Moscow's announcement of a partial military call-up last week.

Russia's neighbour Estonia is conducting a six-day snap military exercise

Spain is planning to offer digital nomad visas to encourage non-European Union (EU) citizens to come to the country and enjoy working in the sun. The law is yet to be passed but the Spanish government is intending to dole out lucrative incentives to make the proposal all the more enticing.

Digital nomads or remote workers refer&nbsp;to individuals who travel remotely and work using technology and internet. They do not have a set base and work in public libraries, cafes and&nbsp;co-working spaces. Countries across Europe are luring them with visas to boost tourism.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the digital nomad visa will be offered to those who are self-employed or working remotely or employed by non-Spanish companies. The applicants&nbsp;will need to be outside the European Economic Area and should be able to furnish a contract of employment to demonstrate they have been working remotely.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-are-digital-nomads-working-remotely-and-travelling-the-world-488237">WATCH |&nbsp;Who are Digital nomads? Working remotely and travelling the world</a>

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While the more intricate details are yet to be hammered out, the Spanish government is expected to grant a residency permit for a year, which can be renewed for up to five years, depending on the applicant's record. Spouses or children&nbsp;will also be eligible to join the applicant.&nbsp;

Additionally, for the initial four years, the individual will receive a 10 per cent relaxation in the taxation scheme. According to Spanish media outlets, the new residents will be taxed at 15 per cent, compared to the standard 25 per cent rate.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-agrees-to-suspend-visa-travel-deal-with-russia-defers-from-full-tourist-visa-ban-511858">EU agrees to suspend visa travel deal with Russia. Defers full tourist visa ban</a>

This particular visa scheme will come under the propsed 'Startup Act', the reports said. The main aim of the Startup Act is to develop a thriving 'startup ecosystem' in Spain and simultaneously, make it a premier destination for entrepreneurs.

If the Spanish government does come up with the planned proposal, it will join the list of European countries such as Croatia, Estonia, and Hungary to have issued some version of digital nomad visa.

While the aforementioned countries have a minimum earning requirement, the Spanish government has not given any indication of adding such a caveat yet. However, the visa applicants might need to prove that they will earn enough to sustain themselves.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Spain is planning to offer digital nomad visas to encourage non-European Union (EU) citizens to come to the country and enjoy working in the sun. The law is yet to be passed but the Spanish government is intending to dole out lucrative incentives to make the proposal all the more enticing.

Spain is planning to offer digital nomad visas to encourage non-European Union (EU) citizens to come to the country and enjoy working in the sun. The law is yet to be passed but the Spanish government is intending to dole out lucrative incentives to make the proposal all the more enticing. Digital nomads or remote workers refer to individuals who travel remotely and work using technology and internet. They do not have a set base and work in public libraries, cafes and co-working spaces. Countries across Europe are luring them with visas to boost tourism. Reportedly, the digital nomad visa will be offered to those who are self-employed or working remotely or employed by non-Spanish companies. The applicants will need to be outside the European Economic Area and should be able to furnish a contract of employment to demonstrate they have been working remotely. WATCH | Who are Digital nomads? Working remotely and travelling the world × While the more intricate details are yet to be hammered out, the Spanish government is expected to grant a residency permit for a year, which can be renewed for up to five years, depending on the applicant's record. Spouses or children will also be eligible to join the applicant. Additionally, for the initial four years, the individual will receive a 10 per cent relaxation in the taxation scheme. According to Spanish media outlets, the new residents will be taxed at 15 per cent, compared to the standard 25 per cent rate. Read more: EU agrees to suspend visa travel deal with Russia. Defers full tourist visa ban This particular visa scheme will come under the propsed 'Startup Act', the reports said. The main aim of the Startup Act is to develop a thriving 'startup ecosystem' in Spain and simultaneously, make it a premier destination for entrepreneurs. If the Spanish government does come up with the planned proposal, it will join the list of European countries such as Croatia, Estonia, and Hungary to have issued some version of digital nomad visa. While the aforementioned countries have a minimum earning requirement, the Spanish government has not given any indication of adding such a caveat yet. However, the visa applicants might need to prove that they will earn enough to sustain themselves. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spain proposes 'digital nomad' visa to attract talent to its shores

Estonia has warned its Russian-speaking residents that their citizenship would be revoked and they would be banned from the EU and the country if they participate in Russia’s war against Ukraine.

There are some 20,000 residents with Russian citizenship living in Estonia who might get drafted into the war.

The move comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced “mobilisation” of troops, signalling that its war against Ukraine is far from over. According to reports, an estimated 300,000 more Russians will be drafted to serve in the campaign.

"We will not stop anyone to follow the orders but participation in a crime against peace is a criminal offence under Estonian law," Eerik-Niiles Kross, an Estonian politician, diplomat, and former chief of intelligence, told Sky News.

"An Estonian resident joining the Russian military in war against Ukraine will lose the residency permit and will be banned from the EU. There is no return for those who go,” he was quoted as saying.

"However, if a Russian living in Estonia receives a mobilisation order from Russia and decides not to go, Estonia gives him all legal protection and will not let Russia to force anyone."

The official added that Russia does not have jurisdiction to prosecute anyone in Estonia who does not follow draft orders.

"All legal residents with Russian citizenship in Estonia have the constitutional protection and same rights as all other residents."

Meanwhile, there have been reports of Russian citizens from across the country fleeing to neighbouring nations in a bid to avoid the conscription order.

On Thursday, at Finland's eastern border with Russia, traffic intensified overnight, according to the Finnish border guard.

Earlier, Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin told Parliament that her government was ready to take action to put "an end" to Russian tourism and transit through Finland, according to Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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Estonia has warned its Russian-speaking residents that their citizenship would be revoked and they would be banned from the EU and the country if they participate in Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Estonia has warned its Russian-speaking residents that their citizenship would be revoked and they would be banned from the EU and the country if they participate in Russia’s war against Ukraine. There are some 20,000 residents with Russian citizenship living in Estonia who might get drafted into the war. The move comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced “mobilisation” of troops, signalling that its war against Ukraine is far from over. According to reports, an estimated 300,000 more Russians will be drafted to serve in the campaign. "We will not stop anyone to follow the orders but participation in a crime against peace is a criminal offence under Estonian law," Eerik-Niiles Kross, an Estonian politician, diplomat, and former chief of intelligence, told Sky News. "An Estonian resident joining the Russian military in war against Ukraine will lose the residency permit and will be banned from the EU. There is no return for those who go,” he was quoted as saying. "However, if a Russian living in Estonia receives a mobilisation order from Russia and decides not to go, Estonia gives him all legal protection and will not let Russia to force anyone." The official added that Russia does not have jurisdiction to prosecute anyone in Estonia who does not follow draft orders. "All legal residents with Russian citizenship in Estonia have the constitutional protection and same rights as all other residents." Meanwhile, there have been reports of Russian citizens from across the country fleeing to neighbouring nations in a bid to avoid the conscription order. On Thursday, at Finland's eastern border with Russia, traffic intensified overnight, according to the Finnish border guard. Earlier, Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin told Parliament that her government was ready to take action to put "an end" to Russian tourism and transit through Finland, according to Finnish public broadcaster Yle. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘No return for those who go’: Estonia warns Russian-origin residents against joining war

Two Swedish filmmakers named Henrik Evertsson and Linus Andersson have been found guilty of violating the sanctity of the grave site of MS Estonia which sank in the Baltic Sea in 1994 as 852 lost their lives.

Two Swedish filmmakers named Henrik Evertsson and Linus Andersson have been found guilty of violating the sanctity of the grave site of MS Estonia which sank in the Baltic Sea in 1994 as 852 lost their lives. The Gothenburg district court levied fines on the two Swedes proportional to their income. Evertsson, the production manager has been told to pay a fine of $2,000 or 22,400 Swedish crowns while Andresdon who controlled the diving equipment will have to pay $1,800 or 18,800 Swedish crowns. In 2019, the filmmakers, part of a Discovery Networks documentary lowered a remote-operated submersible into the sea where MS Estonia lay submerged. The duo was piecing a documentary on the sinking of the ship and investigating if the initial cause given out to the public was indeed the truth or not. Read more: All you need to know about the Swedish parliamentary elections However, as it turns out, the film crew managed to find a massive hole in the hull of the ship, raising serious doubts over the previous investigations. In 1997, the official investigation concluded that the bow shield had failed, damaging the bow ramp and flooding the car deck. The judge, however, hearing the case stated that the shipwreck was a grave site for a large number of people and protecting its sanctity was more important. "There is a strong public interest in maintaining the grave peace around MS Estonia, which is the burial ground for a large number of people. Protecting the sanctity of the dead is more important than protecting freedom of expression and information," said judge Goran Lundahl. It is pertinent to note that MS Estonia, carrying 803 passengers and 186 crew was en route to Stockholm from Tallinn when it sunk. A year later in 1995, Sweden, Estonia, and Finland agreed to designate the spot where the ferry lay as a grave site after deciding not to salvage the wreck. Thus, it became illegal to disturb the site. The filmmakers used a German-flagged ship in international waters to reach the spot with their instruments as Germany had not signed the accord. Consequently, the two Swedes initially were not held accountable. However, later it was argued that 'Estonia Law' applied to the duo as they were Swedish. While the filmmakers have been fined, their findings, revealed in the documentary have forced Sweden and Estonia to open a fresh investigation into the case. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Swedish filmmakers found guilty of violating sanctity of MS Estonia ferry wreck

Russia is blaming a 'Ukrainian spy' for plotting the attack on Daria Dugina, the daughter of Putin's 'spiritual guru'. The suspect allegedly escaped to Estonia after the attack. Russia is threatening action against Estonia unless the 'spy' is extradited. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Russia threatens Estonia for harbouring 'Ukrainian spy'

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION: Estonia repelled the 'most extensive' cyber attack

Soon after taking down Soviet monuments in a province with a large Russian ethnic population, Estonia said on Thursday that it had thwarted "the most extensive cyber attack&nbsp;since 2007".&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the Russian hacker collective Killnet claimed responsibility for the attack and announced that it had blocked access to more than 200 public and private institutions in Estonia, including an online citizen identity system. An Estonian government official, however, said on Thursday that the attack had little overall impact.

"Yesterday, Estonia was subject to the most extensive cyber attacks it has faced since 2007,"&nbsp;tweeted Luukas Ilves, undersecretary for digital transformation at Estonia's ministry of economic affairs and communications.

A Soviet Tu-34 tank was taken off the display on Tuesday in the town of Narva and placed in a museum, according to Killnet, which claimed responsibility for a strike identical to this one in Lithuania in June. In a DDoS attack, hackers attempt to overwhelm a network with unusually large amounts of data traffic in an effort to bring it to a standstill when it is unable to handle the volume of data demanded.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-nasas-gigantic-sls-moon-rocket-a-practice-for-future-mars-mission-507987">In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission</a>

After experiencing significant cyberattacks on both public and private websites in 2007, which it attributed to Russians enraged over its removal of a Soviet-era statue, Estonia attempted to strengthen cyber security. After the Red Army monument was removed from a square in Tallinn, ethnic Russians rioted for two nights.

In response to escalating tensions in the predominantly Russian-speaking town of Narva, the Estonian government on Tuesday ordered the immediate removal of all public Soviet memorials there. They also accused Russia of attempting to use the past to further divide Estonian society.

(with inputs from agencies)

Soon after taking down Soviet monuments in a province with a large Russian ethnic population, Estonia said on Thursday that it had thwarted "the most extensive cyber attack since 2007".

Soon after taking down Soviet monuments in a province with a large Russian ethnic population, Estonia said on Thursday that it had thwarted "the most extensive cyber attack since 2007". On Wednesday, the Russian hacker collective Killnet claimed responsibility for the attack and announced that it had blocked access to more than 200 public and private institutions in Estonia, including an online citizen identity system. An Estonian government official, however, said on Thursday that the attack had little overall impact. "Yesterday, Estonia was subject to the most extensive cyber attacks it has faced since 2007," tweeted Luukas Ilves, undersecretary for digital transformation at Estonia's ministry of economic affairs and communications. A Soviet Tu-34 tank was taken off the display on Tuesday in the town of Narva and placed in a museum, according to Killnet, which claimed responsibility for a strike identical to this one in Lithuania in June. In a DDoS attack, hackers attempt to overwhelm a network with unusually large amounts of data traffic in an effort to bring it to a standstill when it is unable to handle the volume of data demanded. Also Read: In pics: NASA's gigantic SLS moon rocket, a 'practice' for future Mars mission After experiencing significant cyberattacks on both public and private websites in 2007, which it attributed to Russians enraged over its removal of a Soviet-era statue, Estonia attempted to strengthen cyber security. After the Red Army monument was removed from a square in Tallinn, ethnic Russians rioted for two nights. In response to escalating tensions in the predominantly Russian-speaking town of Narva, the Estonian government on Tuesday ordered the immediate removal of all public Soviet memorials there. They also accused Russia of attempting to use the past to further divide Estonian society. (with inputs from agencies)

Estonia repelled the 'most extensive' cyber attack after it removed Soviet monuments

Finland and Estonia joined Latvia, Lithuania and the Czech Republic in limiting or cancelling visas for Russian citizens. Estonia will block more than 50,000 visas from 18th August, Finland will cut back on the number of visas issued from 1st September.

EU divided over sanctions on Russian tourists

Estonia, Latvia left China-led forum and '17+1' group now reduced to '14+1'. Estonia did not attend any meeting since February 2021.

Estonia, Latvia leave China-led forum; major diplomatic blow to Beijing

As China increases military pressure on Taiwan, an island it claims as its own territory, and deepens connections with Russia even as the invasion of Ukraine continue, Latvia and Estonia withdrew from a China cooperation group on Thursday.

The two countries followed in the footsteps of Baltic neighbour Lithuania which withdrew last year.&nbsp;

Lithuania's ties with China had deteriorated after the former permitted Taiwan to establish a de facto embassy last&nbsp;year. The nation also endorsed US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan. A move which China called "erroneous" accusing the Baltic NATO nation of violating the one-China principle.

Watch |&nbsp;Taiwan rejects China's 'one country, two systems' plan

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Croatia, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia are some of the nations that are still part of the cooperation arrangement.

Both Latvia and Estonia said in comments released on Thursday that they will keep pursuing "constructive and pragmatic relations with China" while upholding the rules-based global order and human rights.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-tells-officials-if-you-want-victory-for-ukraine-stop-talking-to-press-506073" hreflang="en">Volodymyr Zelensky tells officials, 'if you want victory for Ukraine' stop talking to press</a>

In recent days, western criticism of China's escalating military pressure on democratically ruled Taiwan has risen.&nbsp;

Latvia's&nbsp;continued membership in the China group, according to the country's&nbsp;foreign ministry, is&nbsp;"no longer in line with our strategic objectives in the current international environment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-visit-to-saudi-arabia-chinese-foreign-ministry-says-no-information-to-offer-505993" hreflang="en">Xi Jinping's visit to Saudi Arabia: Chinese foreign ministry says no information to offer</a>

The country recently on Thursday adopted a vote recognising "Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism," while calling on other like-minded countries to express the same view.

Latvian MPs also declared that Russia's actions in Ukraine amount to "targeted genocide against the Ukrainian people".

(With inputs from agencies)

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As China increases military pressure on Taiwan, an island it claims as its own territory, and deepens connections with Russia even as the invasion of Ukraine continue, Latvia and Estonia withdrew from a China cooperation group on Thursday.

As China increases military pressure on Taiwan, an island it claims as its own territory, and deepens connections with Russia even as the invasion of Ukraine continue, Latvia and Estonia withdrew from a China cooperation group on Thursday. The two countries followed in the footsteps of Baltic neighbour Lithuania which withdrew last year. Lithuania's ties with China had deteriorated after the former permitted Taiwan to establish a de facto embassy last year. The nation also endorsed US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan. A move which China called "erroneous" accusing the Baltic NATO nation of violating the one-China principle. Watch | Taiwan rejects China's 'one country, two systems' plan Croatia, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia are some of the nations that are still part of the cooperation arrangement. Both Latvia and Estonia said in comments released on Thursday that they will keep pursuing "constructive and pragmatic relations with China" while upholding the rules-based global order and human rights. Also read | Volodymyr Zelensky tells officials, 'if you want victory for Ukraine' stop talking to press In recent days, western criticism of China's escalating military pressure on democratically ruled Taiwan has risen. Latvia's continued membership in the China group, according to the country's foreign ministry, is "no longer in line with our strategic objectives in the current international environment." Also read | Xi Jinping's visit to Saudi Arabia: Chinese foreign ministry says no information to offer The country recently on Thursday adopted a vote recognising "Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism," while calling on other like-minded countries to express the same view. Latvian MPs also declared that Russia's actions in Ukraine amount to "targeted genocide against the Ukrainian people". (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

After Lithuania, now Latvia and Estonia quit China cooperation group

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