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The President of the Republic celebrated the Day of Restoration of Independence with a festive concert20.08.2004
 Today, to celebrate the Day of Restoration of Estonian Independence a festive concert took place in the Rose Garden of the Office of the President of the Republic.
President Rüütel in his address on the occasion stressed that in this year the celebration of this holiday was unique since we celebrated it for the first time as a Member of the European Union and NATO. According to President Rüütel, the history did not end for us with full membership of the EU and NATO. "In Brussels and Strasbourg we ourselves have to stand up for the interests of our people explaining not only our present policies but also our history," the Head of State told.
In his address President Rüütel called for learning from history, saying: "I call for carefully looking into our recent history, too, for researching into and analysing the 13-year-old events in order to bequeath to the posterity of them an overview as correct as possible."
The President of the Republic also emphasized the importance of concord. "Solidarity and awareness of social dimension form the basis for functioning of the EU and the rest of the democratic world. They provide society with cohesion, which keeps it from falling apart. Today's Estonia does not need confrontation. What we need is more empathy, responsibility and social sensibility in conducting state affairs," the Estonian Head of State noted.
In conclusion, President Rüütel said that we were facing a lot of urgent work for the benefit of Estonia: "What we need for this work is sense of solidarity and responsibility. This would enhance our sense of community and pride in our country - a country, which cares for each of its residents."
 The festive concert on the occasion of the Day of Restoration of Independence was organised in collaboration with Estonia Theatre, Anu Tali acting as programme consultant. Brass band Estonia Brass, trumpet player Priit Aimla soloing, played music at the concert.
In the morning, the President of the Republic at Kadriorg received members of Murtud Rukkilille Ühing (Broken Cornflower Society) representing those who had suffered during the mass repressions. Thereafter, President Rüütel at the Toompea Castle attended a meeting of 20. Augusti Klubi (The 20th August Club). The meeting, beyond the Day of Restoration of Independence, celebrated the 10th anniversary of the club consisting of those Members of the Supreme Council who in 1991 had voted for the resolution to restore independence.
Public Relations Unit of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, August 20, 2004
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