Prime Minister Ansip praises Denmark’s European Union presidency

Prime Minister Ansip praises Denmark’s European Union presidency

“Denmark’s work in putting together the negotiations package for the European Union’s new budget and in balancing the often opposing interests of member states was successful,” said Ansip.

Søvndal said the country’s stint as president of the EU was difficult but made easier by a commitment to cooperation and the set goals.

“Denmark would not have been as successful were it not for the contribution of member states, including Estonia,” said Søvndal.

In discussing matters related to the European Union’s budget negotiations, Prime Minister Ansip said Estonia considers it of the first priority in putting together the new financial perspective that the budget increase economic growth and employment, further research and innovation and contribute to cross-border infrastructure projects.

Ansip said that Cohesion Fund assistance was a great aid to Estonia during the crisis. He said that in future, the state would continue to use European Union assistance in the most effective manner.

Both Andrus Ansip and Foreign Minister Søvndal said that the relations between the two countries were good and cooperation in international organizations and at the regional level were fruitful. Both countries are linked by a responsible finance and economic policy.

“Estonia and Denmark share the same values and principles and our interests are largely common,” said Ansip. “Denmark is an important partner also in defence cooperation.”

The officials also said after the meeting that Estonian-Danish economic relations could be bolstered.

For photographs of the meeting, visit http://valitsus.ee/et/uudised/pildialbum#2272-1