Prime Minister Ratas emphasised the importance of European unity while meeting with French President Macron

At his meeting with the President of France Emmanuel Macron i, Prime Minister Jüri Ratas i emphasised the need to preserve the unity of the European Union i and to focus on the values and aims that unite people, rather than the differences.

“Without France, the European Union would not be as we know it. Since the establishment of the European Union, France has been one of its leading countries, and I am happy that France feels its full responsibility in our common Europe,” Prime Minister Ratas said. He added that he shared the President’s wish to rapidly move on with developing an efficient and strong Europe, which protected its citizens and offered them new opportunities.

“I sincerely acknowledge President Macron for putting a strong and cooperation-oriented Europe at the centre of his campaign,” said Prime Minister Ratas. “For many people, the result of the recent presidential elections in France had the impact of being a turning point that brought new energy, hope and optimism to Europe. We understand that we have much more which unites the member states than which separates us.”

The Prime Minister introduced the priorities of the Estonian Presidency of the Council of the European Union to the President of France. Those priorities are an open and innovative European economy, a safe and secure Europe, a digital Europe and the free movement of data, and an inclusive and sustainable Europe.

Prime Minister Ratas expressed the hope that President Macron would be able to attend the summit dealing with digital issues in Tallinn at the end of September. “Europe must align with the technological development that is thoroughly changing the lives of people, companies and countries. Modern e-services and solutions influence our jobs, education, health care, and general welfare,” said Prime Minister Ratas.

The security of Europe, migration, social sector regulations, and climate and energy policies were also talked-about at the meeting. Additionally, Russia’s continuing aggression against Ukraine and the need to continue sanctions were discussed.

Prime Minister Ratas said that Estonia highly appreciates the participation of the French defence forces in the NATO i battle group located in Estonia, and expressed hope that the presence of France would continue. Estonia and France cooperate closely in different international operations in Africa and the Middle East, as well as in cyber defence issues.

Like France, Estonia supports deepening the defence cooperation of the European Union, increasing its efficiency, and improving cooperation between the EU and NATO. Prime Minister Ratas also emphasised the need to defend the external borders of the EU, and Estonia’s interest in the new cybersecurity strategy of the EU.

Today, Prime Minister Ratas also met with the representatives of MEDEF, the largest confederation of companies and entrepreneurs in France, to promote bilateral economic cooperation. Prime Minister Ratas gave an overview of the current performance of the Estonian economy, and Estonia's good investment and business climate.