The ministers discussed closer defence and defence industry cooperation, as well as the wider European security situation. Pevkur said Estonian-Polish defence ties had deepened as both countries respond to shared security concerns on NATO’s eastern flank.
“Estonian–Polish defence cooperation is closer than ever before. In addition to our shared understanding of the threats facing Europe and the importance of ensuring deterrence, we are increasingly working together in the field of defence industry,” said Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur.
“Together with Poland, we are setting an example to our allies by committing to increase defence spending to five per cent. We are both making substantial investments in the defence industry, which helps ensure Europe’s security of supply and its independent defence capability. Estonia’s growing defence industry has much to learn from Poland, and we can be valuable partners,” he added.
Pevkur linked Poland’s planned air policing contribution to recent security incidents in the region. “This week’s drone incident again confirms that Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has a direct impact on our security,” he said.
“I am therefore pleased to announce that Poland intends to take part in Baltic Air Policing this year, deploying its fighters to Ämari Air Base – an important and highly valued contribution to the security of our entire region,” the minister added.
Pevkur said Estonia and Poland have a common role in protecting Europe’s security as eastern flank states. He said both countries need continued solidarity and support from other European Union members for initiatives such as Eastern Flank Watch.
“As countries on NATO’s eastern flank, Estonia and Poland work closely together to ensure that Europe remains secure and that the aggressor stays on the other side of the border,” Pevkur said.
“We bear this responsibility on behalf of all of Europe, and we need the solidarity and support of EU member states to implement initiatives such as Eastern Flank Watch, which safeguard our common security,” he added.
The ministers began the day at a defence policy conference organised by the Polish Embassy. The conference focused on European security and Estonian-Polish cooperation in defence and defence industry development.
After their bilateral meeting, the ministers visited the Polish Navy multi-role support vessel ORP Kontradmirał Xawery Czernicki, which is currently in Tallinn. At the Mine Harbour, they were also greeted by Commodore Ivo Värk, Commander of the Estonian Navy.
ORP Kontradmirał Xawery Czernicki is the command and support ship of the Polish Navy’s mine countermeasures squadron. The ship was completed in 2000 in Gdynia, Poland.
Before arriving in Tallinn, the vessel patrolled the Baltic Sea with EML Ugandi as part of NATO’s Baltic Sentry operation. It also recently took part in exercises in Latvian waters.
