Visit to Estonia

Today I visit Estonia to build closer diplomatic, strategic and economic relations with one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. As the next President of the Council of the European Union, Estonia will also have increasing influence on regional affairs.

I will meet President Kersti Kaljulaid and Foreign Minister Sven Mikser to discuss a range of bilateral, regional and global issues, including human rights.

We have a shared outlook and approach on a range of global issues, including a commitment to international peace and security, as demonstrated by our contributions to efforts in Afghanistan and the Global Coalition against ISIS.

Both Australia and Estonia are committed to innovation as a way to promote economic growth. Estonia is a world leader on cyber and e-government.

I will meet the Director-General of Estonia's Information Systems Authority and visit the e-Estonia showroom, to share approaches to innovation and digital transformation policies.

I will also meet with the Director of the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence, where I will observe the world's largest and most complex technical cyber defence exercise.

I will share an update on the Australian Government's approach to ensuring our future competitiveness, through the National Innovation and Science Agenda, as well as new ways of solving international problems through hubs such as the InnovationXchange.

Australia and Estonia also have a close relationship grounded in common values and strong people to people links, with Australia hosting the sixth largest Estonian expatriate community worldwide.