Agenda Profile: Riina Solman
First Reading of the Draft Resolution of the Riigikogu "Making a Proposal to the Government of the Republic to Move the Embassy of the Republic of Estonia in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem" (325 OE)
2024-09-23
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position strongly supports the proposal to relocate the Estonian Embassy to Jerusalem. This stance is motivated by a value framework rooted in history and sovereignty, which is illustrated by drawing a comparison involving the citizens of Tallinn and the Russian Federation. In addition to offering support, the speaker criticizes the conduct of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and high-ranking officials regarding Estonia’s vote at the UN.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the history of Israel and Jerusalem, as well as diplomatic relations, referencing personal experiences (such as visiting the Knesset) and earlier political events (the 2020 scandal). He is also well-versed in the internal decision-making processes of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noting the roles of the Chancellor and the Minister in issuing directives. He uses historical context to explain the situation of the Jewish people in Jerusalem to those unfamiliar with Israeli history.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speech is formal and balanced, addressing the respected Deputy Speaker of the Riigikogu and the rapporteur. He/She uses both personal narratives (the 2020 event) and historical analogies (the comparison involving Tallinn) to justify the position. The style is direct and includes a slight self-justification regarding previous actions, concluding with a question about the considerations behind the Minister of Foreign Affairs' actions.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker references his previous activity as Minister of Population in 2020, as well as foreign visits (a visit to the Knesset, meetings with heads of state). His current pattern of activity involves participating in the Riigikogu (Parliament) bill debate, where he offers support and poses questions. He also mentions earlier public actions that resulted in an "inflated scandal" in the newspaper columns.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is directed at the actions of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (the Secretary-General) concerning the provision of Estonia's voting instructions at the UN. The criticism is procedural and inquiry-based, seeking clarification regarding their considerations. Additionally, he mentions "certain circles" that stirred up a scandal over his activities in 2020.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker expresses clear and strong support for the proposal put forward by the rapporteur, thereby demonstrating a willingness to cooperate with the bill's proponent. Simultaneously, they demand accountability and explanations regarding the actions of the government (specifically the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Secretary General), which signals a readiness to criticize other political forces.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The primary focus is on international relations, centering on the location of the Estonian embassy in Israel and the status of Jerusalem. Secondarily, emphasis is placed on Estonia's national sovereignty and security, using the situation of citizens in Tallinn and the Russian Federation as an example.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient Data
2 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among the social issues addressed are the historical coexistence in Jerusalem (Jews and Arabs) and the question of sovereignty concerning foreign nationals residing in the capital (citizens of the Russian Federation in Tallinn). These topics are presented within the context of sovereignty and historical justice, underscoring the significance of the historical capital.
2 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on Draft Resolution 325 (DR) of the Riigikogu concerning the relocation of the Estonian embassy to Jerusalem. The speaker is a strong proponent of this foreign policy initiative and is actively participating in its first reading.
2 Speeches Analyzed