By Years: Marko Mihkelson

The speaker emphasizes cooperation with allies (the Nordic-Baltic states, Poland, the US Congress) and the coordination of parliamentary diplomacy to ensure a unified allied space. He/She refers to the consensus-based work within the Foreign Affairs Committee (for example, when processing the statement on Georgia) and close cooperation with the Government of the Republic and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when handling draft legislation. He/She considers direct communication with allies essential to prevent divisions and ensure that Estonia’s positions are taken into account.

The speaker stresses the need to set aside political dividing lines for the sake of a common goal and considers strong foreign policy consensus the key to Estonia's success. He works closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and parliamentary colleagues from allied nations (the Nordic-Baltic states). He highlights the cross-factional unity within the Riigikogu when approving foreign policy statements.