The Estonian Academy of Sciences, 24 February 2017 – Today, on the 99th Anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, Prime Minister Jüri Ratas handed out the national research awards, the F. J. Wiedemann Language Prize, and the sports and culture awards.
“Estonian language, our traditions and local intellectuals were a pillar of strength during the Estonian Age of Awakening and made a priceless contribution to the independence of the Republic of Estonia,” said Prime Minister Ratas during the award ceremony. “The Republic of Estonia was created 99 years ago today. One could not find a more dignified day for handing out our culture, sports and research awards, and the Ferdinand Johann Wiedemann Language Prize. All award laureates have more than deserved them.”
According to the Prime Minister, the Estonian nation already turned out faces to the world and wanted to be a worthy member of cultural nations nearly a hundred years ago, when we first became independent, and there is no doubt that we have filled the goals set upon the creation of this country.
“Students in Estonia have achieved excellent results on international PISA tests. Our athletes have returned home with bright medals from both Summer and Winter Olympic Games. Estonian culture creators are held in high regard at home and abroad. We are also at the top of the list when it comes to the consumption of culture. Similarly, the large number of research articles by Estonian scholars in the world’s finest journals and our cooperation with leading international research groups show that we are among leading science countries,” explained the Prime Minister.
“The viability of our culture, education, science and sport holds significant value in ensuring the intellectual wealth and dignified future of our country. This is what we have to teach our children and remind them throughout their lives. And today’s event aims to make that message very clear.”
Prime Minister Jüri Ratas participated in the Flag-hoisting ceremony for the 99th Anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, the Religious service in St Mary’s Cathedral, took part in placing wreaths at the foot of the War of Independence Victory Column and attended the Parade of Defence Forces of Estonia at Vabaduse Väljak (Freedom Square).
Laureates of national research awards, the F. J. Wiedemann Language Prize, and the sports and culture awards: http://bit.ly/2lzCg86
Read the Prime Minister's speech given at the foot of the War of Independence Victory Column: http://bit.ly/2mfdBXX
Speech by Prime Minister Jüri Ratas, given prior to the 99th Anniversary of the Republic of Estonia at the Vanemuise Theatre in Tartu: http://bit.ly/2lD3Mjk
Photos #EV99: http://bit.ly/2kZ6Rbp