Estonia, EU – Baltic States, Legislation, Technology

Photo: valitsus.ee

Ratas assured Trudeau that Estonia and Canada are like-minded friends when it comes to developing digital societies, government spokespeople said. The Estonian government leader expressed hope that the digital cooperation agreement between Estonia and Canada will bring the development of artificial intelligence to a new level.

"Both Estonia and Canada are leaders in the development of digital services that make lives easier for people and entrepreneurs. E-services are Estonia's strength, but Canada is currently conducting strong research in the field of artificial intelligence, which is the most epochal technology," Ratas said.

After the meeting, the prime ministers noted in their joint statement that by joining forces, the standard of living will improve for both Estonian and Canadian people and a new impulse will be given for research and development. This, in turn, will support inclusive growth as well as create new jobs and bridges in society.

For the next step of cooperation, Ratas invited Trudeau to be the first prime minister of Canada to visit Estonia – possibly already this autumn. Ratas is also the first Estonian prime minister to make an official visit to Canada.

The prime ministers also dwelt on defense cooperation. "I highly appreciate the contribution Canada has made for the security of the Baltic states and all of NATO. I hope that the military presence of Canada in Europe will continue," Ratas said.

The prime minister assured that the transatlantic trade with Canada is important, as well. "The trade agreement between the European Union and Canada will provide a decrease in foreign trade restraints, a clear set of rules, and a sense of security, which make up the basis for good economic relations," he said.

Ratas on Monday met with Canadian Minister of National Defense Harjit Sajjan, Speaker of the House of Commons Geoff Regan, and Speaker of the Senate of Canada George Furey. In the afternoon, meetings were held with Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland, President of the Treasury Board Scott Brison, and Governor General of Canada Julie Payette.

Ratas on Monday evening headed on a visit to Iceland from Canada.