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The President of the Republic presenting General Harald Kujat with the 1st Class Order of the Cross of the Eagle on 11 April 2003
11.04.2003


Dear Mr General,

I am very glad to welcome you in Estonia.

The Republic of Estonia began to build its defence forces in 1991. We had the need, the confidence and the will to develop the defence capability of our Fatherland, but lacked the necessary experience and resources. Luckily, in this process, we have met many people and countries, whose support has helped us to reach the goals set those days.

Estonia and Germany are standing side by side as countries, which develop cooperation and set themselves objectives in the name of the nearer and further future of both Europe and the whole world.

You, Mr General, have made a major contribution to the development of military cooperation between Estonia and Germany. Many of our officers and non-coms have studied at German military schools. On top of that, Germany has helped us by sending his military advisers to Estonia. The material assistance received from Germany has also been significant.

Since the restoration of our independence, one of Estonia's top priorities has been to become a member of NATO. With a view to building up defence forces complying with NATO requirements, we have done a great job.

Your personal assistance has contributed largely to Estonia's preparations for the accession to NATO. We highly appreciate this contribution to putting one of out foreign policy priorities into practice. Signing of the accession protocols by the Member States demonstrates that Estonia is deemed to be worthy of the member status of the North Atlantic Alliance.

Honourable Mr General,

I hope from my heart that Estonia can count on your advice and support in the future as well. I wish you sincerely every success.
Permit me, in recognition of your services to Estonia, to present you with the 1st Class Order of the Cross of the Eagle.


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