Joint Press Statement
Regarding Inaugural U.S.-Estonian Consular Working Group Meeting

March 31, 2005
Tallinn, Estonia

Representatives from the governments of the United States and Estonia met in Tallinn on March 31 to inaugurate the bilateral Consular Working Group. The Group's work is a direct result of U.S. President George W. Bush's February 24th announcement of a "Visa Roadmap for Central Europe and the Baltics."

In addition to discussing the ongoing and meaningful consular cooperation that exists between the two countries, the U.S.-Estonian Consular Working Group will focus on the practical steps the Republic of Estonia needs for potential future participation in the United States' Visa Waiver Program. Jaanus Kirikmäe, Director General of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated, "The established Consular Working Group is a continuation of the consular work and good practice established in 1925, when our countries' first bilateral agreement was concluded."

Representatives from both sides commented on the warm and constructive working relationship and discussed a number of practical issues related to President Bush's roadmap. "It is a bit too early to say exactly when Estonia will be invited to join the Visa Waiver Program," U.S. Consul to Estonia Paul Mayer said, "But this Consular Working Group is an important first step in making this happen. We look forward to an ongoing and rewarding dialogue with our Estonian counterparts."

The next Consular Working Group meeting is scheduled for early May.