Prime Minister Kaja Kallas described the event as a useful forum for discussing the challenges facing Europe and how they can be solved, and it brings together countries whose positions differ. “The fact that the summit was held in Chișinău is an confirmation of our unity at a time of war in Europe,” she added. “It sends a clear signal to Russia that we are standing with Moldova, Ukraine and other countries that have chosen the path of a democratic Europe. Moldova’s organisation of the event has been exemplary and shows their commitment to Europe.”
“President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine provided an overview of the situation in Ukraine. We discussed how we can provide even more support for Ukraine and the help needed to ensure victory,” Prime Minister Kallas explained. “We will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, because Russia’s long-term strategic objective of conquest.”
The Estonian head of government also took part in a roundtable focussing on European security and stability at which she said there can be no grey zones in Europe. “The days of spheres of influence are long gone,” she remarked. “Our priority has to be supporting countries that have chosen the path of Europe and democracy in their journey to EU and NATO accession.” Also participating in the roundtable were presidents of France, Kosovo, Romania, Switzerland and Ukraine, the prime ministers of Finland, Iceland, Latvia and the Netherlands, the president of the European Council and the EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy. Debates on energy and connectivity took place in parallel with the discussion on security.
The heads of 47 European countries and EU institutions were invited to attend the summit. Invitations were not extended to either Belarus or Russia.
Further summits are scheduled to take place in Spain in the second half of the year and in the United Kingdom in the first half of 2024.
Gallery: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAGbxe
