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The President of the Republic at the Business Seminar of "Äripäev" and IBM on June 10, 2002, in Tallinn10.06.2002
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Estonians have always been characterized by both their endeavour for independence and a pragmatic awareness that all alone and on our own only our state cannot reach prosperity. We have successfully capitalized on that awareness, so that one could say - the Estonian economy not only has kept up with the speed of the others, but it also has overtaken the majority of countries as for the freedom and growth rate of economy.
The Estonian export of goods and services almost equals to the value of our gross domestic product. International companies, income of which is several times exceeding our national income, are investing in Estonia. Each year, financial flows amounting to billions of Estonian kroons cross the boundary of our country. The interest rates in Estonia are fluctuating in the same rhythm like in the European Union. And so, we will be a member state of the European Union soon. And a member state of NATO as well.
Yet, how to draw a line between international and domestic? How to preserve and to develop all that which is unique to Estonia? What is this anchor that is keeping us together as people and a nation?
To find answers to these questions is at least as essential as enhancing the international competitiveness of our state. Moreover, while seeking answers to these questions I come to the conclusion that only such a country can be successful where living standard of all the citizens is increasing. It cannot be ensured by the openness of economy and international integration only. The Estonian state and its population themselves must be engaged in this task.
I do hope that while speaking about the economic freedom, investments and economic growth at today`s conference, you would not forget these topics either.
I wish you good ideas and every success!
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