Presidents Ilves and Gašparovič stated that the Baltic states, Slovakia, Poland and Czech Republic are all among the European Union countries that complied with the agreed rules and successfully emerged from the economic and monetary crisis.
"The results are quite obvious – we don't have the problems that several "old" European countries face," stated the Estonian Head of State. "Our responsible approach to the organisation of the economic and financial policies of our countries could be an encouraging example to a number of those in trouble."
When speaking about the future of the European Union, President Ilves highlighted the importance of free trade and free movement in Europe as important factors for the recovery of the European Union.
"We must open the labour market and develop more free movement," he said.
Presidents Ilves and Gašparovič emphasised the inevitable closer co-operation and solidarity of the "new" countries, using the superb co-operation between Estonia and Slovakia on many European issues as an example.
As for the euro area, the Estonian Head of State stressed the importance of solidarity with countries that share our responsible mindset and course of action.
"The euro area must remain open, based on the compliance of jointly agreed criteria and not political arguments or preference. This refers, above all, to Latvia joining the euro area, followed by Lithuania and then support for Poland's efforts," emphasised President Ilves.
