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2021-02-03 at 11h23

Joint Statement on the establishment of diplomatic relations between Portugal and Estonia's 100th anniversary

In February 2021, Portugal and Estonia celebrate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. This celebration takes place during a particularly challenging period for the international community. Therefore, Portugal and Estonia recognise with much appreciation the strong and long-lasting bonds of friendship which unite them.

Portugal recognised Estonia de facto in 1918 and de jure on the 3rd of February 1921 and, since then, always acknowledged that sovereignty, which was reconfirmed on the 27th of August 1991 and led to the reestablishment of formal diplomatic relations on the 1st of October 1991.

Throughout the last century, the two countries have faced formidable challenges at the political, social, and economic levels, which both were able to overcome due to the unwavering determination of their peoples. The two countries persevered and joined the common European family. It is, therefore, an encouraging coincidence that the celebration of the establishment of diplomatic relations' centenary takes place during the Portuguese Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Currently, Portugal and Estonia share several priorities, which range from the fight against climate change to their societies' digital transformation, and, simultaneously, to the promotion of a Social Europe model, based on solidarity and convergence. Both countries have established a solid collaborative basis in multiple areas of common interest, such as electronic governance and cybersecurity, as well as cooperation in the security and defence sectors. Our countries are committed to developing even further their common interests, as well as to enhancing cultural exchanges, particularly in the field of cultural and heritage tourism, and to deepening the scientific cooperation between their institutions. The high-level visits occurred in recent years, namely the State Visit of Estonia's President to Portugal, in 2019, and the visit of the Portuguese Minister of National Defence to Estonia, in 2020, are additional evidence of the excellent political (bilateral) relations.

On this occasion, Portugal and Estonia wish to reaffirm the commitment to further strengthen the bilateral relations at the political, economic, and cultural levels, as well as to reinforce cooperation in the context of the European Union, NATO, the United Nations, and other multilateral fora of international dimension, within which our countries have registered a strong and fruitful cooperation.
Ministeries:
Foreign Affairs