April 5, 2000

Press Statement
Undersecretary Alan P. Larson
Tallinn, Estonia

Today was the third meeting of the U.S.-Estonia Bilateral Economic Working Group under the Baltic-American Charter of Partnership signed by President Clinton and President Meri in January 1998. We discussed key economic and trade issues between our two countries in preparation for the annual Partnership Commission meeting that will take place in Tallinn in June. On my return to Washington I will report personally to Deputy Secretary Strobe Talbott, who will be leading our delegation, and my message to him will highlight the substantial positive achievements Estonia has made in building a market economy.

I appreciate Deputy Under Secretary Pallum's hospitality and the hard work his team devoted to preparations for this meeting. I congratulated him on Estonia's invitation to begin accession negotiations to the European Union. I reiterated the U.S. Government's support for Estonia's integration into the full range of Euro-Atlantic institutions. I stressed that our goal is to increase American trade and investment in Estonia and to continue to be a strong economic partner. In addition, we discussed a broad range of economic issues including intellectual property protection, WTO issues, standards, and improvement of customs procedures.

I would like to take one moment to note Estonia's efforts to restore normal diplomatic dialogue and economic relations with Russia. I urge Estonia to continue its sincere and constructive efforts to promote good neighborly relations with Russia.

Although my stay in Tallinn was unavoidably short, I leave with an impression of a country that has made great strides and that is determined to complete the task of building a competitive market economy with strong and transparent regulatory structures that meet western standards. Having seen the vibrant city of Tallinn and the dedication of the Estonian government, I know that this is a market where Americans need to be.