Agenda Profile: Riina Sikkut
Draft law (641 SE) for the ratification of the agreement between the Republic of Estonia and the Republic of Botswana for the avoidance of double taxation in respect of income taxes, and for the prevention of tax evasion and fiscal fraud, and of the protocol thereto – first reading
2025-05-20
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The speaker strongly supports the ratification of the double taxation avoidance agreement between Estonia and Botswana, viewing it as a tool for strengthening international ties. The stance is policy-driven, emphasizing the importance of mutual taxation avoidance and the prevention of tax evasion. The objective is to support Estonian business interests in this growing African country and potentially increase future tax revenue.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding international tax treaties and the procedural processes of the Riigikogu, providing a detailed overview of the Finance Committee’s discussion. Specific statuses of negotiations with other countries (Liechtenstein, Andorra) are mentioned, and reference is made to the long-term business interests of Estonian IT companies in Botswana. Official departmental data is presented, although the lack of a specific tax revenue estimate is acknowledged.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, informative, and procedural, fitting the role of the commission's rapporteur. The focus is on the logical conveyance of content, summarizing the questions and answers presented in the commission, and the consensus decisions made. Emotional or personal appeals are absent; the emphasis is on conveying facts and procedure.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the legislative process, presenting a report on the work of the Finance Committee during the preparation of Draft Act 641 SE. This pattern of activity involves submitting summaries of the committee's discussions to the plenary session, referencing both the earlier committee meeting (May 6) and the plenary agenda (May 20).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
No data available.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasizes cooperation, noting that the Finance Committee reached a consensus on decisions regarding the bill's further proceedings. Collaboration with representatives of the Ministry of Finance (Minister Jürgen Ligi and official Tiina Hansson) during the presentation of the draft bill was also highlighted.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is international, centered on strengthening ties with the growing African nation of Botswana via tax treaties. The current status of negotiations with other countries, such as Liechtenstein and Andorra, is also mentioned, demonstrating a wider interest in managing international tax relations.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The speaker supports economic measures that foster international trade and protect business interests, particularly the operations of IT companies overseas. The objective is fiscal discipline, achieved through the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of tax fraud, to ensure the future collection of additional tax revenue.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
No data available
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is the ratification of international tax treaties (Botswana Treaty 641 SE) and the management of the legislative procedure. The speaker is in a supporting role, ensuring the bill proceeds to the first reading, its finalization, and the appointment of a representative for the lead committee.
1 Speeches Analyzed