Estonia praised for its commitment to Allied collective security, operations
Estonia was commended for its commitment to the Alliance’s collective security and its operations on Monday (18 March) during a visit by Estonia’s President Toomas Hendrik Ilves to NATO headquarters. “Estonia is an exemplary Ally,” said NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen.
The Secretary General thanked Estonia for its contribution to the mission in Afghanistan. “Your troops are serving shoulder to shoulder with their NATO colleagues in one of the toughest parts of Afghanistan. They perform their duties with great courage and great skill,” he said.
Estonia hosts the Alliance’s Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence in Tallinn. This centre allows Allies to share experience and best practices and helps participants to improve their security. “Estonia is leading the way in cyber security, a vital part of modern capabilities,” said Mr. Fogh Rasmussen. “This is defence for the future.”
Estonia’s commitment to collective security is also reflected by the fact that it spends two percent of its economic output on defence.
“In tough economic times such as this, that shows real commitment and real dedication,” said the Secretary General.