What Does Estonia's Foreign Minister Want from India? Insights on Bilateral Relations

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has urged for increased high-level visits from India to enhance bilateral relations. He expressed enthusiasm for Prime Minister Modi's potential visit and highlighted Estonia's role as a gateway for Indian businesses to the EU. Tsahkna discussed the upcoming Ukraine recovery conference in 2027 and the importance of India's involvement in reconstruction efforts. He also noted the growing trade between the two nations and the significance of the EU-India free trade agreement. With a focus on collaboration in sectors like IT and defense, Tsahkna's remarks underscore the potential for a stronger partnership between Estonia and India.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2026, 17:11 IST

Strengthening Ties Between Estonia and India

Tallinn: Margus Tsahkna, the Foreign Minister of Estonia, has emphasized the need for increased high-level visits from India to enhance their bilateral relationship. He expressed that Estonia would be delighted to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi in their northern European nation.

In a recent interview, Tsahkna mentioned that Estonia is set to host a Ukraine recovery conference in 2027 and expressed hope that India would participate in the reconstruction efforts for the war-affected nation.

He highlighted the significance of India as a partner for Estonia, noting the stark contrast in their populations—1.3 million in Estonia compared to 1.4 billion in India. Tsahkna pointed out that India, being the world's largest democracy, is crucial for Estonia's growing business relations.

The minister remarked, "Estonia is an ideal destination for investments in sectors like defense, IT, and AI solutions. Our E-residency program allows Indian entrepreneurs to become E-residents and engage with our vibrant startup ecosystem."

Tsahkna acknowledged India's economic growth and the Indian government's proactive approach to development, which has piqued the interest of Estonian companies.

The E-residency initiative provides foreign nationals with a secure digital identity issued by the government, enabling them to set up and manage EU-based companies online, simplifying processes such as document signing and banking.

He noted the potential for further strengthening bilateral relations, stating, "India is increasingly taking on a leadership role globally. Estonia serves as a gateway for Indian businesses to access EU markets, making it mutually beneficial for both parties."

When asked about the necessity of more high-level visits, Tsahkna reiterated that Estonia would warmly welcome Prime Minister Modi and other Indian leaders, emphasizing that increased visits would enhance their ties.

Currently, there has not been a prime ministerial visit from India to Estonia, but Tsahkna expressed eagerness to host Indian business delegations alongside political figures.

He stated, "We are ready to open many doors for them and ensure they feel welcomed. I anticipate numerous high-level meetings from India in the future."

In terms of trade, the bilateral exchange of goods reached 139.3 million euros in 2025, while services accounted for 66.4 million euros last year.

As of December 31, 2025, Indian foreign direct investment (FDI) in Estonia was recorded at 13.6 million euros, while Estonian FDI in India totaled 4.15 million USD from April 2000 to March 2025.

Regarding India's potential role in mediating peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Tsahkna remarked that while India has the leverage to influence Russia, ultimately, it is President Vladimir Putin who holds the key to ending the war.

He expressed concern over Russia's aggressive actions towards Ukraine, stating, "For Europe and Estonia, Russia poses a direct threat. We desire peace in Europe, but the current situation is unfortunate."

Tsahkna highlighted that Estonia will host the Ukraine Recovery Conference in 2027, which aims to gather global leaders, donors, and private companies for reconstruction efforts.

He described the reconstruction of Ukraine as the largest project in Europe since the Marshall Plan post-World War II, expressing hope that India would be involved.

On the EU-India free trade agreement, Tsahkna conveyed its importance and expressed satisfaction with the political agreement reached, stating, "We should progress swiftly, as the EU is a reliable partner, and India is a significant developing partner for Europe. I hope Estonian companies will greatly benefit from this agreement."

These comments follow President Karis's visit to India from February 16 to 20, where he attended the AI Impact Summit and met with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi.

Additionally, Modi met with Karis during the AI Action Summit in Paris on February 11, 2025. Former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu also visited Estonia in August 2019.