Today, the President of the Republic of Latvia Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga who is currently on her state visit to Estonia visited Tartu together with the President of the Republic.

On their way to Tartu they stopped in Põltsamaa, where they planted a tree in the Friendship Park. In Põltsamaa, the President of Latvia was greeted by Jõgeva County Governor Margus Oro, Põltsamaa Parish Head Toivo Tõnson and Mayor of Põltsamaa Margi Ein.

In the Tartu Town Hall, the presidents were greeted by Mayor of Tartu Andrus Ansip, Tartu County Governor Jaan Õunapuu and Chairman of Tartu Town Council Peeter Tulviste. The President of Latvia delivered a greeting speech to the leaders of Tartu to which President Meri added: ''I like Jüri Mõis, but I do not like his idea that all towns in Estonia should be packed in the bag of Tallinn.''

The presidents also visited the Baltic Defence College and the University of Tartu where President Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga delivered a lecture. The presidents also went to the Estonian National Museum.

The official leaving ceremony of the state visit of the President of Latvia took place at Ülenurme Airport from which she left to Riga on a private plane.


Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, May 3, 2000

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