Ecology, Energy, Estonia, EU – Baltic States, Investments, Markets and Companies

Pentus-Rosimannus said that countries that do not belong to the European Union should also invest in the reduction of pollution affecting the Baltic Sea.

"The situation in the Baltic Sea has been complicated for many years – it is almost an internal sea, where the water exchange is very slow and any pollution that reaches the sea causes damages there for a long time," the minister said.

She said that the results of Estonian investments can finally be seen. "The numbers of gray seals and sea eagles has increased, fishermen confirm that there is more fish again," explained Pentus-Rosimannus.

The ministers are discussing today "blue growth" issues, i.e. how to manage the sea and coastal areas so that, on the one hand it would increase the national wealth and create jobs, on the other hand ensure that the marine environment is protected. In addition, the ministers discuss the European energy and climate policy till 2030, in connection to which, they focus on energy security.

"The Ukrainian crisis has shown to all of Europe, how important energy independence is. Local clean energy is the best not only for the environment and the economy, but directly affects the security. European Union countries are now sending more than one billion euros per day outside the European Union, in order to buy fossil energy sources from third countries, and it is unreasonable in every sense," said Pentus-Rosimannus.

"Estonia considers it right to develop European Union internal energy connections and instead of dependence on imported energy, a bigger share of local renewable energy in the energy portfolio."