Today, on the Independence Day of the Republic of Finland, President Lennart Meri sent a letter of congratulations to Martti Ahtisaari, the President of Finland. As President Meri wrote, it is especially important today, 60 years from the beginning of the Winter War, to emphasise that the independence must not only be fought for, but also preserved with care. Finland has fought two wars for its independence, and President Meri is proud that Estonia supported Finland in both of them.

Estonia tries to fortify her position so that we would never lose our independence again, and we are very grateful for Finland's assistance in all fields, President Meri wrote. Finland's material, financial and spiritual support has assisted Estonia in becoming what she is today, and in taking powerful steps towards accession to the European Union and NATO. Estonia will never forget Finland's assistance, President Meri reiterated.


Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, December 6, 1999

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