It is truly an honour and great pleasure to be in Tallinn, in this magnificent garden, on such a significant evening. Indeed, I am well aware of the importance that Estonians attach to Jaaniööks (“Yanieeks”), the magical night that in Spain we know as the night of San Juan. An annual occasion that marks the triumph of light over the long dark months of winter. Its symbolism could not be more appropriate to the difficult times in which we live, as a terrible war is waging in the heart of Europe and many of our citizens fear for their future.
We all fully understand the serious concern that the invasion of Ukraine awakens in many parts of Europe (EU), and particularly here in the Baltic region and Estonia, and the terrible memories evoked by the tragic events we are witnessing. Spain may be at the other end of Europe, but believe me, we also feel very close to you.
That is, in fact, the main message that I would like to convey with my visit: you can count on SPAIN as a friend, an EU fellow partner and NATO ally. At this precise moment —as we have seen this afternoon at the harbour — our Navy (Armada) is deployed in the Baltic Sea to participate in NATO´s Baltops exercise. At the same time, we have permanently integrated a 600-strong Army contingent in Latvia’s NATO eFP armoured BG, and our F-18 fighter jets operate the BAP-Baltic Air Police mission from Lithuania.
I am also pleased to confirm that within a few weeks we will once again deploy a NASAMS battery to Estonia in order to bolster your country's air defence. Allow me to mention as well that we extend our commitment to our common defence with troops on the ground and specific capabilities in other parts of Europe, like Slovakia and Romania; while our ships patrol regularly the Mediterranean and the Black Seas. Overall, Spain has more than 4000 Spanish women and men in uniform deployed or actively dedicated to enhance security and deterrence for the Alliance’s Eastern Flank.
Our commitment to our allies is strong and resolute. Also towards Ukraine. As I told President Zelensky, during his recent visit to Spain, we will support Ukraine for as long as necessary, to help Ukraine recover its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to aid in its reconstruction efforts.
"...It is precisely at these moments that we can count on our true friends. Those with whom we share common values and principles, and a close or similar vision of the world. I can assure you: you will always find in Spain a firm and reliable ally..."
In this context, I wish to acknowledge Estonia's leadership in confronting aggression and demanding justice. We are bound by our joint will and conviction −together with our allies− to hold Russia accountable for all the crimes committed in Ukraine.
Mr President/Yr Excellency, distinguished guests, Spain’s successful Presidency of the EU Council, also thanks to you. It is worth stressing both the importance of ensuring a triple transition (green, digital and social) and the support of the enlargement process.
Spain wants to play a leading role in the interconnection projects of the region with the rest of Europe, key for a more united, capable and competitive EU starting with the most important of them all: Rail Baltica. As you well know, we have substantial knowledge and expertise in the field of high-speed trains and railway infrastructure.
We see with great satisfaction how more and more Estonians choose Spain as a friendly place to visit or pursue their professional dreams. At the same time, the number of young Spaniards coming to Estonia, attracted by its thriving digital and knowledge ecosystem is also steadily increasing.
Our bilateral relations between are growing ever closer. A sample of our best art is here until August, in the Kadriog Museum, which we entered to reach the Presidential Palace. There you may see the painting exhibition "España Blanca y Negra. Una visión de España. De Fortuny a Picasso".
Mr. President,
It is precisely at these moments that we can count on our true friends. Those with whom we share common values and principles, and a close or similar vision of the world. I can assure you: you will always find in Spain a firm and reliable ally.
Please join me in a toast to the deep friendship between Spain and Estonia, to our mutual freedom and security and our common future!:
Tänan teid Väga. Muchas gracias!