Deputy Prime Minister Borg Visits Estonia To Strengthen Bilateral Ties And Cybersecurity Cooperation

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Dr Ian Borg, met with Estonian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna, during an official visit to Tallinn on Friday.

During their bilateral meeting, the ministers discussed a range of strategic issues including existing collaborations, opportunities to expand trade and commercial ties, regional security, and EU-related matters of shared interest.

A key focus of the discussion was the European Union’s Action Plan on Cable Security. The two ministers exchanged views on the strategic role of submarine cables, which are vital for a range of essential services in both countries. Dr Borg acknowledged the significant steps being taken in the Baltic Sea region to enhance the protection of underwater infrastructure, especially following a number of recent incidents that underscored their vulnerability.

“Malta has faced similar challenges in recent years. We are working to ensure the Mediterranean receives the same level of strategic attention under the Action Plan.” Dr Borg said.

He also highlighted that the EU’s approach to security must go beyond military measures, “The EU’s security strategy must also prioritise societal resilience, cybersecurity, and the safeguarding of critical infrastructure, to ensure continuity of essential services such as healthcare, transport, telecommunications, water, and public administration even during times of crisis.”

While in Tallinn, Dr Borg also held talks with Liisa-Ly Pakosta, Estonia’s Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs. He praised Estonia’s global leadership in digital transformation and its exemplary e-government services, particularly in justice and healthcare. The ministers agreed on the importance of closer cooperation on cybersecurity bilaterally, at the EU level, and through regional frameworks.

Discussions also covered Malta’s Presidency of the Council of Europe and its firm stance on justice and accountability for Ukraine. Both parties welcomed the establishment of the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine in June, with Minister Pakosta expressing Estonia’s appreciation for Malta’s active role in facilitating this key development.

To conclude his visit, Dr Borg paid tribute at the memorial dedicated to victims of Estonia’s communist occupation from 1940 to 1991, honouring those commemorated on its wall of remembrance.

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