A high-level NB8 meeting in Tallinn will gather prime ministers and President Zelensky to discuss urgent defense support and a joint security declaration.
On Tuesday, June 9, Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Mihal will hold a meeting with the heads of NB8 governments in Tallinn, in which the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky will also participate.
According to the Estonian government, this year the country is leading NB8. According to Mihal, NB8 has been one of the most devoted supporters of Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale aggression. The total aid from NB8 countries exceeds €42 billion, making their contribution the largest per capita in the world.
I am glad that the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky will join us. Supporting Ukraine is one of the main priorities of Estonia’s chairmanship of NB8. We will discuss how to strengthen Ukraine’s defense potential, increase pressure on Russia, and make Europe as a whole safer
– Prime Minister of Estonia
Agenda for the meeting and expected outcomes
In addition to Ukraine, NB8 prime ministers will focus on issues of competitiveness, development of artificial intelligence, and regional security. It is expected that at the conclusion of the meeting a joint statement by NB8 prime ministers and a joint declaration on strengthening cooperation in security and defense between NB8 and Ukraine will be adopted.
The Nordic-Baltic Eight countries form one of the most integrated regions in Europe. We are united by shared values, close cooperation in security, and a drive to be leaders in both innovations and defense technologies. In Tallinn we will discuss how to take the next step so that our region becomes even more competitive, secure, and influential
– Kristen Mihal
The program also includes a bilateral meeting between Estonia’s prime minister and the President of Ukraine.
During his visit to Estonia, President Zelensky will also meet with Estonia’s President Alar Karis.
The visit underscores the importance of close NB8 cooperation with Ukraine within the framework of European security and defense. It shows that the region continues to develop joint initiatives and strengthen stability in Europe.