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 relation to income taxes, and for preventing tax evasion and tax fraud, and its associated protocol - second reading.

2025-06-11

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

Political Position
The speaker strongly supports the ratification of the Agreement between Estonia and Botswana for the Avoidance of Double Taxation (Bill 641 SE). This stance is policy- and procedure-focused, emphasizing the smooth progression of the legislative process and the absence of opposition. The bill is contextualized within the framework of international cooperation and a state visit.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a deep understanding of the legislative process, referencing specific deadlines, committee decisions, and the sequence of readings. The subject matter involves international tax treaties, specifically the avoidance of double taxation with respect to income taxes and the prevention of tax evasion.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly formal, neutral, and procedural, focusing on the conveyance of facts and legislative steps. The speaker employs a logical appeal to explain the current status of the bill's proceedings and the subsequent steps, while strictly avoiding emotional expressions.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is an active driver of the legislative process, who reports on the results of the Finance Committee’s work and sets the agenda for the plenary session. A previous connection to the state visit by the President of Botswana was also mentioned, which provided context for the discussion of the draft bill.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no objection; the speaker emphasizes that neither members of the Riigikogu, nor factions, nor committees submitted any amendments to the draft bill. Consequently, no opposing party or their viewpoints are being criticized.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative approach is consensus-based, as the Finance Committee made the decision to proceed with the draft bill by consensus. This indicates a readiness for cross-party agreement regarding this international treaty.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly international, centering on the ratification of the agreement between the Republic of Estonia and the Republic of Botswana. Local or domestic regional issues are not being addressed.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Support is provided for the regulation of the international tax environment and the prevention of tax fraud through a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement. This indicates a preference for structured international trade and fiscal discipline.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There is not enough data.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is currently on the expedited processing of the Draft Act on the Ratification of the Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation between Estonia and Botswana (641 SE). The speaker is a proponent of the bill and the procedural lead, who intends to hold the final vote immediately following the conclusion of the second reading.

1 Speeches Analyzed