Decoding Estoni@n Presidency of the Council

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTERVIEW OF ESTONIAN MEP URMAS PAET (ALDE), MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE ON BUDGETS 4-7

PRIORITIES OF THE ESTONIAN PRESIDENCY 8

KEY ESTONIAN PRIORITIES VERSUS EU’S PRIORITIES FILES 9

POLITICAL CALENDAR FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS 10

WHAT ABOUT 11 INTERVIEW OF URMAS PAET Estonia will deal with several energy and the development of Defence cooperation and MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE ON BUDGETS, climate topics: review of the EU ETS, review the fight against terrorism? Do you consider ALDE of the Energy Efficiency Directive, renewable NATO membership as compatible with the energy, and electricity markets… what are the development of an EU Defence Union? main priorities of the country with regards to As the rapporteur for the European Defence these issues? Union reported at the European Parliament, I Europe needs to take several steps towards would like to stress that cooperation with NATO cleaner energy sources which must be both is key when speaking of the European Defence reliable and affordable. Union. Priorities of the Estonian Presidency of the Council During the Presidency, Estonia will go on with There are several issues where the EU could the EU commitment to the Paris Agreement improve its internal security cooperation as well and with the work on the main strands of the as its cooperation with NATO and could make it Urmas PAET joined the European Parliament EU’s energy and climate policy. Europe needs more practical with fast and clear decisions. in 2014. A former journalist, he served as Mi- to step up its game and should be ready to nister of Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2014 The initial action plan for the EU common take the leadership in fighting climate change. and Minister of Culture from 2003 to 2005. defence policy, or defence union, must also Especially now as the US is withdrawing from the include NATO projects that concern combating Agreement. hybrid threats, promoting operational There is no doubt digital is going to be a top Another topic I cannot stress enough is the cooperation (including at our coasts), tackling priority for Estonia, especially with regards to necessity to build a strong Energy Union migration, reinforcing cyber security and unlocking data potential. What would you say and to achieve energy security which can be defence capabilities, strengthening the to stakeholders/Member States opposed to a made through regional cooperation and the technological and industrial base in the field legislative initiative on the free flow of data? diversification of sources, suppliers and routes. of defence, putting in place military exercises Yes indeed, Estonia has high expectations for as well as strengthening security and defence Estonia is looking to promote labour mobility Europe, especially in the digital field. One of capabilities of EU neighbours in the East and and free movement of person, in particular the priorities of the Estonian Presidency is the South. through the Services Package. How is the free movement of data. This is something that country looking to convince recalcitrant Moreover, the EU can financially support, concerns all European policies as well as the countries and stakeholders stating that this for , the placement of international fundamental freedoms. We need to find ways liberalisation will increase unfair competition NATO battalions in EU Member States at its to ensure that data is used in a secure way for between Member States through social and Eastern border by backing the construction both our individual and collective benefit. It is Urmas PAET economic dumping? of the necessary infrastructure such as roads, crucial to remove location-based restrictions barracks and other facilities. At the moment, on the movement of data, to reach a common Estonia sees labour mobility within the EU as an the majority of this burden is on the shoulders understanding in issues related to data ownership opportunity rather than a threat. When people of a few, specific Member States who (due to and ensure a reliable exchange and preservation moves across borders, equal opportunities also their geopolitical location) need increased of data. means fair mobility, i.e. the way they use their presence of their allies. At the same time, this right to study, work or stay abroad without being We need to look ahead, think innovatively and increased presence in specific countries serves discriminated. seize the opportunities because freeing data will as a protection for all EU and NATO countries contribute to make our daily lives easier and to Last but not least, Estonia puts safety and and thus the solidarity-based distribution of boost the economy. security as a priority, with a specific focus on additional costs is justified.

5 The European Commission is planning several We support initiatives that make it easier for According to you, what is the greatest initiatives related to VAT and the fight against companies to operate in different member achievement of Estonia in its history? tax evasion, do you think the EU truly has an states. Doing things digitally will help The people. During difficult times, we stand added value in taxation issues? companies to carry out their operations more together and always strive forward. easily and faster. VAT is a consumption tax that is an integral What would you recommend us to eat in part of everyday transactions, including cross The European Commission will pursue Estonia? border transactions, and in general terms it ongoing trade agreements talks and launch is functioning similarly in all the 28 Member negotiations with Australia and New Zealand. Estonia has a great food culture. If you go out to States. The new initiatives are aimed at better In your opinion, what is the importance of trade eat, you will discover traces of Scandinavian and functioning of the (EU) internal market and are agreements for the EU? German cuisine. taking into account the changes in economy Trade can be a powerful engine for growth and (digitalisation and globalisation) over the past While in Estonia, don’t miss out on homemade can contribute to sustainable and inclusive dark bread with a nice layer of salty butter, two decades. The initiatives respond to the France has just brought to power a young development. EU needs to continue its work chanterelle sauce with fresh potatoes, ideas that the Commission has collected from pro-European politician. What is your feeling on free trade agreements with regions and mulgipuder (potato and barley porridge) and EU businesses, individuals and Member States about this election? Do you think that pro- countries in different parts of the world. other typical Estonian dishes. Give also a try to during the consultation process on the future of European speeches are key to tackle the rise of kama which is another example of traditional EU VAT. So, yes, in the area of VAT the EU does In March this year the UK triggered Article 50 extremism and populism? Estonian food. It is a mixture of roasted barley, have added value. to launch the Brexit negotiations. How do you rye, oat and pea flour that you mix with sour milk. think this will impact the European integration? France has had and will always have an Certainly, the fight against tax evasion and important role in shaping the future of the EU. You will also find many delicious food from our avoidance is the main concern for the EU also No doubt the light will be shed on the Brexit That is also one of the reasons why Russia had gardens and forests, such as blackcurrants, in the company taxation. Here more value talks during Estonia’s EU presidency period. For a fixed favourite during the French presidential blueberries, beetroot etc. could still be added by seeking the solutions the remaining 27 members states there needs elections. for the new types of economy such as sharing to be unity. Of which Estonian tradition are you the Macron had a clear victory and thus we should economy and the digital economy. And while proudest of? some improvements could be necessary in It is no exaggeration that the strength of the not over-mystify populist and extremist terms of cross-border tax rules, we should also EU, as well as the cooperation between Europe political forces and underestimate the political We have many great traditions but I’m very keep in mind the competitiveness of the EU at and the US, are vital for Estonia. All our foreign experience of the EU citizens, in this case of the proud of the Estonian Song Festival. It is held the global arena. policy measures should be focused on that goal. French society. every five years in the Tallinn Song Festival Therefore, the main aim during the Estonian Grounds. It is said that Estonians sang Could you briefly present your country? The European Commission is also considering Presidency of the Council should be to make themselves free, thus singing together is an adopting several initiatives in company law to the EU stronger with every decision and every Estonia is located in the north-eastern part of important part of our history. modernize EU legislation. Do you consider that negotiation. Europe. We have a population of 1,3 million If I plan to go to Estonia for one week-end, there is still too much administrative burden on people. Our capital Tallinn has a beautiful and what should I absolutely see/discover? businesses? well preserved medieval old town which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend time in the nature: take a walk in the forest, swim in the sea or the lake, and wander in Half of our country is covered by forest which we the bog. Our islands are also nice to visit. And of love and cherish as Estonians like to spend their course, go to the sauna. time in the nature, may it be in the forest, in the bog or at the seaside. Could you recommend us an Estonian song/ singer? We also love singing and of course every digital thingy. Music by Estonian composer Arvo Pärt.

7 PRIORITIES OF THE KEY ESTONIAN PRIORITIES ESTONIAN PRESIDENCY VERSUS EU’S PRIORITY FILES From July to December 2017, Estonia will chair for the first time the Presidency of the Council. Boosting the economy through digital innovation as well as addressing the migration crisis Due to the UK decision to leave the EU, the Baltic country is taking its role 6 months earlier than are top common priorities of the three institutions and reflected in the European Budget for expected. Some fears there is a danger Brexit talks shall overcloud the Estonian Presidency’s 2017 (Jobs, Growth &Investment - € 74.9 bn and Security, Migration & Citizenship - € 6 bn). priorities as stated by Clyde KULL, Ambassador at the Permanent Representation of Estonia While Estonia intends to address equally those issues during its Presidency, some preference to the EU. Anyway, there is no doubt this term will be heavily marked by the Brexit negotiations can be given to the initiatives in the framework of a digital package. Moreover, some of set to start around the 19th June. the specific objectives in the field of security can be linked to the geographical position of Besides, other factors such as the new Macron’s government in France and upcoming elections the country: enhancing cooperation with NATO or strengthening relations with Eastern in Germany as well as the emergence of terrorist attacks all over Europe will have to be taken partnership countries. into account by Estonia to manage its Presidency. But concretely, let’s have a look at what main areas will Estonia work on during its term: Estonia will try to reinforce the four European freedoms (free Joint priorities for 2017 ESTONIAN Priorities movement of goods, persons, services and capital) to make the European economy more dynamic. A specific mention is dedicated 01 Growth, investments Support for knowledge-based to the trade agreements between the EU and other countries all over growth and competitiveness the world. A more stable electricity market and the fight against tax ECONOMY Preservation of the principle of free evasion are issues on which the Estonian Presidency will also work. movement Protection of EU four freedoms (goods, persons, services and Making progress on the banking capital) Following the priorities of the European Commission and considering union and on the capital markets Ensuring a stability of banking the context in which terrorism is affecting EU countries, the Estonian union sector Presidency shall focus on strengthening the internal security as well as Fight against tax fraud Preventing tax evasion the protection of the EU’s external borders. A stronger partnership 02 between Eastern countries and a deeper cooperation with NATO are also part of the objectives. security Better protecting EU citizens’ Improving the security in Europe security

In line with the European Commission’s Digital Single Market strategy, Reforming the EU’s migration Tackling the migration crisis Estonia will carry on the implementation of the digital agenda policy focusing on its cross-border dimension in areas such as: e-commerce, e-services, digital public services, free flow of data and geo-blocking. Delivering on a digital single Fully exploit the potential of digital As a global leader in digital governance, it can be expected that market market for the benefits citizens and the country will put digital topics in the centre of its programme. business The cooperation with the Estonian Vice-President of the European 03 Commission for Digital Single Market, Andrus ANSIP, should be also DIGITAL Improving the social dimension of Promote a social inclusion of all productive in this regard. EUROPE the EU citizens

To make Europe more inclusive and sustainable, the Presidency will strive to take measures aiming at ensuring equal access to the labour market, high quality education or services. Securing a more 04 sustainable environment is also part of the agenda of the Estonian Social Presidency. inclusion 9 POLITICAL CALENDAR FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS and your summer cultural agenda if you are either in Brussels or travelling to Estonia – which you should by the way 07 july 08 august Into the Valley Festival Baltic The best cutting-edge electronic music in the Set against the coastal backdrop of Pärnu Bay, spectacularly and unique location of Rummu the main-stage sits right at the water’s edge limestone quarry and its underwater prison giving the festival a real beach-party feel, (Rummu, Estonia, June 29th to July 1st) whilst additional stages offer a more intimate rd th Õllesummer Festival club feel (Pärnu, Estonia, August 3 to 5 ) One of the largest event for music lovers in Brussels Summer Festival (BSF) the Baltics (Tallinn, Estonia, July 5th to 8th) The festival combining jazz, pop, rock, electro, world music with cultural events and Belgian food in the heart of Brussels (Brussels, ESTONIA, THE 2.0 NATION Belgium, August 6th to 15th) 09 september Classissimo Germany: Federal election A summer festival for amateurs of classical With just over 1.3 million inhabitants, Estonia is the least populated (and the northern) of the Germany will go to the polls on September music (seasoned fans and neophytes) who Baltic countries. Covering almost 50% of the territory, Estonian forests play a major role in 24th in a Federal election that will see want to discover young musicians as well as the country’s economy. Yet Estonia is far better known for being a very, very, very digital and established artists (Brussels, Belgium, August Angela MERKEL battle for her fourth term as connected nation. Chancellor with former European Parliament 4th to 10th). President Martin SCHULZ (SPD) and amid the It is no secret that Skype was invented there. However, few people know that Estonians rise of the far-right (AfD). MERKEL’s Christian benefited from the very first public Wi-Fi hotspot back in 2001. Sixteen years later, there are Democrats (CDU) scored a significant victory now over 1,300 of these across the country. in a regional election on May 7th, giving the 10 october party a boost ahead of the national vote. Czech Republic: Legislative election State of the Union 2017 The members of the Chamber of Deputies European Commission President Jean- will be elected on October 20th and 21st. Claude JUNCKER will address the European The leader of the resultant government will Parliament in his annual State of the European become the Prime Minister. GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS Union speech on September 13th. High-level Digital Summit The EU heads of state or government would E-stonia: As its digital reputation would suggest, all the administrative procedures carried meet in Tallinn to discuss Europe’s digital 11 november out by the 1.3 million Estonians are dematerialized. All? Well, no. Some indomitable future. Austria: Legislative election procedures of the Estonians’ everyday life still hold out against the E-invaders, such as Austria will hold a snap election on October weddings, divorces and real estate sales. 15th as the country’s coalition government has 12 december collapsed. The vote raises the prospect of far- Shortly after the Independence in 1991, the Estonian administration promoted the use of right Freedom Party (FPO) entering national the Internet and started to connect every school to the World Wide Web. In February 2000, Slovenia: Presidential election government. The Slovenian President, whose powers are Estonia even decreed online access as a Constitutional right. mainly honorary, shall be elected in December based on a two-round majority voting system. This election will constitute a prequel to the parliamentary elections, expected to take 11 place in 2018. If you ever visit Estonia, the rich historical legacy surely will hit you in the face. The country’s typical postcard setting (and in particular tourist tips : food, drinks & places Tallinn’s) consists in roofs with red tiles, many churches’ arrows and turrets of centuries-old castles. Since the Middle Age, Estonia has been a fully-fledged component of the European cultural space through the Hanseatic League, which has helped to make the country There are numerous restaurants in Tallinn. But it’s not so simple to find good restaurants that prosperous. offer traditional local cuisine... Oh, and of course, Tallinn is listed in the UNESCO world heritage.

BALTHASAR ANNELI VIIK OLDE HANSA Raekoja plats 11 Pikk 30 Vana Turg 1 Traditional Estonian Famous for its hot A typical medieval cooking with garlic chocolate, so dense restaurant which HISTORY as a key ingredient. that the spoon sends you back to And we mean THE stands straight in the the 15th century! TALLINN key ingredient. cup! Indeed, there is a garlic sorbet! Estonia is a Baltic country that has suffered a lot from foreign occupation. Along with the Danish yoke and the rule of the Teutonic Order State, the Estonian people were under the domination of PUSSIROHUKELDER , the Russian empire as well as the Soviet Lossi 28 Union. However, despite facing many challenges, TARTU Located in an old powder keg, this the country has thrived and is now an independent restaurant offers soups and plates of fried and democratic country. herring with garlic sauce, along with a very large choice of beers. Nice atmosphere, meteorites The Estonian Age of Awakening is a period starting especially for young people wanting to in the middle of the 19th century when Estonians face in beer pong competitions. slowly, but surely, began to feel a strong sense of nationhood wanted to take control of their own Estonia is not only the home of Wi-Fi but also of destiny. This period ends with the Declaration of meteorite craters. Kaali is a the Republic of Estonia in 1918. field of 9 meteorite impacts The Hiiumaa Island, the second located on the Saaremaa Estonia has two Independence Days both from the Soviet Union. The first one commemorates largest of Estonia, is famous for its th Island, dating from 7 000 the end of the Soviet domination on the 24 of February 1918 and the second one celebrates LIGHT various lighthouses including Kõpu th BC. In ancient times, people the ‘Restoration of the Day of Independence’ on the 20 of August 1991. which is one of the oldest in the world! thought the main, 22-meter HOUSE Attracting many tourists, this 36-meter deep crater was Apollo’s high lighthouse operates since its grave. Go have a look, it is construction, completed in 1531. quite easy to find!

13 FUN FACTS SPORTS

In Estonia, singing is not only an art but also a way of life, as The Estonians surely can spin your head right round. That is why they invented Kiiking. well as a form of political expression. During the Estonian Age of Awakening, the multiplication of popular choirs Considered as a “sport”, it consists of making a full 360 degrees rotation with a giant swing. contributed to the development of a common identity. DO YOU HEAR During the events, commonly known as the Singing Revolution, THE PEOPLE SING? which led to the restoration of Estonia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, mass demonstrations were singing patriotic songs and anthems previously forbidden under the Soviet yoke. According to the Guinness Tunnels book, the world record 7.15 of the longest swing shaft used is 7.15 m. The under the hill... METERS record is held by Kaspar In the early 2000s, in Tallinn, a labyrinth Taimsoo since 2015. made of 17th century tunnels were found (or rediscovered) right under the Old Town. These tunnels were built back in the time when “KIIKING” Estonia was part of the Swedish empire to protect the population from Russian’s attacks. NOT KICKING When the Russians finally invaded in 1710, most of the town’s population had already been wiped out by a plague and the tunnels were forgotten.

… And castles on the hill Wife-Carrying(AND STILL NOT KICKING) Maybe did Ed Sheeran write his famous song “Castle on the Hill” while on a trip across Swinging is nice, carrying your wife is better. Originally Estonia. Indeed, this small, sparsely populated country boasts 1000+ manors and castles! Do the math, there is one castle par 1300 inhabitants! from , the idea is rather simple: the male contestants take their wives on their shoulders and try to Don’t expect many Airbnb’s opportunities in some noble Estonian’s castle though, run as fast as possible along the very precise 253.5 meters most of them are now turned into spa and luxurious restaurants. distance. Estonians are pretty much the best at this sport. This can be explained by the “Estonian” method: the woman uses GHOSTS, ghosts everywhere her legs to grip onto the man’s neck, and hangs over his But if there are castles, there has to be ghosts, right? YUP! back. Estonia is known for some famous ghost stories taking place This “sport” might sound crazy, but don’t play with the in the streets of Tallinn. Who needs Halloween when you can rules! The minimum weight of the wife you carry should be have yourself a walking tour in the old town listening to the 49 kg. If she weighs less, the carrier will receive additional inhabitants’ spooky tales. Give it a try, and maybe you will weights. Dura lex, sed lex! If you are single, or if your wife make it alive! doesn’t want to run “with” you, you can obviously choose your neighbour’s. 15 LANGUAGE CODING, are you kidding?

Estonian is a Finnic language, closely related to Finnish, and spoken by about 1.1 million people. The main difference between these two languages is that Finnish has many loanwords Thanks to its effort to digitalise all public services while being the home of a from Swedish, while Estonian partly popped up out of German roots, along with some Russian, well-known technological invention (e.g. Skype), Estonia is often seen as the Latin, Greek and English words world’s most digitally advanced society. But did you know that, back in 2012, Moreover, due to the “historical” relationship between the two countries, many Estonians Estonia also became the first country to introduce coding lessons in primary speak Russian. schools? Just for fun, let’s have your first coding lesson! What is HTML? HTML, which stands for ‘Hyper Text Mark-up Language’, is basically a language used to create web pages. This mark-up language provides a logical way to structure content for web pages by surrounding raw text with information the computer can interpret. Want to give it a try? Complete your first lesson by following thislink Hello! Tere Goodbye Head aega Good morning tere hommikust Good evening tere õhtust Thank you Tänan Excuse me Vabandage! Sorry Vabandust Please Palun One language is never enough Ühest keelest ei piisa kunagi I only speak a few words of Estonian Ma räägin tõesti vähe eesti keelt One beer, please! Üks õlu palun!

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