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Estonia Seeks AI & Green Tech Partnership With India, Cites Ancient Civilizational Ties

Estonian President Alar Karis, during a visit to New Delhi, emphasized the deep historical and civilizational parallels between Estonia and India. He outlined opportunities for enhanced bilateral cooperation, particularly in artificial intelligence, green hydrogen, and electronics. President Karis also expressed serious concern over Russia's war in Ukraine, calling it a global issue. He concluded by affirming the strong, values-based friendship between the two nations.

Key Points: Estonia-India AI, Green Tech Cooperation | President Karis Visit

  • Estonia invites Indian investment in green hydrogen & electronics
  • Parallels drawn between Estonia's 'Tiger Leap' and new 'AI Leap'
  • President condemns Russia's aggression in Ukraine
  • Highlights shared democratic values and historical parallels
2 min read

Estonian President hails 'ancient' ties with India; seeks deeper cooperation in AI, Green Tech

Estonian President Alar Karis seeks deeper cooperation with India in AI and green hydrogen, highlighting shared history and digital transformation.

"We can call ourselves ancient, arguably even eternal, Europeans, as you Indians can consider yourselves a cradle of civilisation. - President Alar Karis"

By Sahil Pandey, New Delhi, February 18

Marking the upcoming anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, President Alar Karis emphasised the deep-rooted historical parallels between Estonia and India, describing both nations as "ancient Europeans" and a "cradle of civilisation" respectively.

Addressing a gathering in the national capital on Tuesday, the Estonian President noted that while both nations transitioned from "colonial yokes" to freedom following the World Wars, they have since transformed into modern technological powerhouses.

"We can call ourselves ancient, arguably even eternal, Europeans, as you Indians can consider yourselves a cradle of civilisation... History has not always treated us kindly. Both our nations have experienced what it is like to be ruled by others," President Karis said.

Highlighting the success of Estonia's digital transformation, the President drew parallels between the 'Tiger Leap' program of the 90s, which digitised Estonian education, and the current "AI Leap" initiative. He revealed that his visit to New Delhi is centered on the upcoming World AI Summit.

"The new technological beast that needs training is, of course, artificial intelligence. We must make it our friend... Last year, I laid the foundations for a new program called the AI Leap, designed to help our youngsters and teachers harness its power for the benefit of society," he added.

On the economic front, President Karis invited further Indian investment. He expressed particular interest in expanding bilateral ties in green hydrogen and electronics.

Turning to global security, the President expressed grave concern over Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine, stating it is not merely a regional concern but one with "global impact."

"Russia's aggression in Ukraine is not merely a regional concern... The international community must find ways to ramp up pressure on Russia and create a situation wherein warfare becomes too costly and exhausting for them," Karis said, adding that Moscow appears insincere regarding peace talks.

Concluding his address by quoting Rabindranath Tagore, the President remarked that the friendship between India and Estonia is rooted in shared values of democracy, pluralism, and respect for sovereignty.

"By staying on that path, our friendship will be a strong and long-lasting one," he said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to see Estonia reaching out. Their digital governance is world-class. If some of that expertise can help streamline our own systems, it would be a huge win. The green tech focus is also timely.
V
Vikram M
While the tech cooperation sounds promising, I hope our government negotiates terms that truly benefit Indian startups and MSMEs, not just large corporations. The 'AI Leap' should have a 'Made in India' component.
P
Priya S
Respectfully, calling Estonia "ancient Europeans" and India a "cradle of civilisation" in the same breath feels a bit of a stretch? But the sentiment of shared historical resilience is nice. The Tagore quote was a classy touch.
R
Rohit P
Green hydrogen collaboration is key for our energy security. Estonia might be small, but they are tech leaders. This is a smart partnership. Hope our ministers are listening!
K
Karthik V
The part about Russia and Ukraine is tricky for our foreign policy. Estonia is clearly in the Western camp. We have to balance our historical ties with Russia with these new European partnerships. A delicate dance.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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