According to the prime minister, artificial intelligence already plays a decisive role in shaping the future of democracy, global security, and economic development.
“Here in Tallinn, AI is not discussed as a gadget or a trend. It is a capability. It is shaping the future of democracy, the global order, and our shared security,” said the prime minister in his opening remarks.
Michal emphasised that security and innovation are inseparable, referring both to Ukraine’s technological adaptation, which gave it a strategic advantage on the battlefield, and to Estonia’s pioneering role in digital resilience since the cyber attacks of 2007.
“Estonia knows what it means to live on the digital frontline. AI gives us advantage that size alone cannot. This is why we have an AI strategy for defence and a Force Transformation Command within the Estonian Defence Forces. With industry, startups, and the military working side by side, we move from idea to field faster,” Michal noted. “Russia’s war has made one thing clear: the side that can integrate technology faster has the advantage. Ukraine has shown it. So, while supporting them in every way, we also learn from them,” he added.
The prime minister emphasised that artificial intelligence is more than defence – it is also an engine of sustainable growth and improvement in everyday life. “AI transformation is not only a government task. It grows from collaboration between business, researchers, and public institutions. Together, we build solutions that serve both growth and society.”
He also emphasised the importance of trust, education, and inclusion in the digital transition. Technology must serve people and protect cultural diversity.
“AI should widen opportunities, not narrow them. This is why we fight for linguistic diversity. Small languages must not be left behind. Estonian must live in global AI systems. We work with partners worldwide to make this real and share what we learn,” said Michal.
The eighth Tallinn Digital Summit, taking place on 9 and 10 October at the newly renovated National Library of Estonia, is dedicated to shaping a more secure and resilient future for artificial intelligence. The meeting will be attended by several members of the Estonian government and their colleagues from other countries: German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath, and leaders of technology companies and opinion leaders.
Full text of the speech of the prime minister: Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal’s welcoming remarks at Tallinn Digital Summit 2025 | Government of the Republic of Estonia
