"We are very much available to help to ensure that the first Estonian presidency would be a success for all of the EU,“ said Parliament President Antonio Tajani on his visit to Estonia on Tuesday 30 May. He was there together with representatives of the Parliament's political groups to discuss the priorities of the upcoming Estonian presidency of the EU with the country's political leaders.
Estonia takes over the presidency of the Council of the EU in July, which means it will play a key role in facilitating the adoption of new EU legislation.
Tajani had a meeting with Estonian Prime Minister Jüri Ratas in the morning, which was followed by a meeting between the Parliament delegation and representatives from the Estonian government. Topics discussed included the fight against terrorism, the security of the EU's external borders and the migration crisis with particular focus on developments in Africa. In addition there was a discussion on social policy, which concentrated on young people and unemployment.
In a press conference afterwards, Tajani stressed the importance offered by the digital economy: “We believe that via digitalisation we can make Europe more competitive. The digital single market is a fantastic opportunity.” He added that in order to develop digital skills people would need to be trained.
Other topics discussed included climate change and Brexit. “We have to be united on the issue of Brexit. If we are united, we can find a fair solution,” Tajani said.
In the afternoon Tajani and the representatives from the political groups met members of the Estonian parliament and Estonian President Kersti Kaljulaid.
The Parliament delegation also took part in a debate with students on the future of Europe at Tallinn University.
In addition to Tajani, the Parliament delegation also included Estebán Gonzalez Pons (EPP, Spain), Maria João Rodrigues (S&D, Portugal), Roberts Zile (ECR, Latvia), Guy Verhofstadt (ALDE, Belgium), Gabriele Zimmer (GUE/NGL, Germany), Philippe Lamberts (Greens/EFA, Belgium), Peter Lundgren (EFD, Sweden) and Marco Zanni (ENF, Italy).
