On 1 April 2025, the President of the Republic of Estonia H.E. Mr Alar Karis, and delegation, visited the NATO Defense College (NDC). During this visit, President Karis met with NDC Commandant LGEN Nielsen and received a comprehensive briefing about the College’s organization and its key activities in support of NATO. Afterward, President Karis shared his insights in a lecture on the “Future of European Security” with current participants in the NDC Senior Course and NATO Regional Cooperation Course.
In his lecture, the President elaborated on the Estonian experience and way of thinking. He addressed the threats Europe is currently facing – from Russia to the increasing number of cyberattacks, and underscored that an alliance such as NATO is a force multiplier. To maintain strength, we must remain diligent and prepared to deter and defend against emerging security threats. President Karis acknowledged, however, that this requires not just commitment but also resources – more defence spending, modernization and sustained support for the defence industry.
The College was pleased to welcome back the Ambassador of Estonia to Italy, Malta and San Marino, H.E. Mr Lauri Bambus, who accompanied the Estonian President. During a previous official visit on 7 February 2025, Ambassador Bambus had also been provided with a briefing and had a discussion with Commandant LGEN Nielsen, after attending the Senior Course 145 Graduation Ceremony.
On 29 March 2004, Estonia – along with Bulgaria, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia – formally became a member of NATO. As a Baltic state, it plays a crucial role in the Alliance’s defence posture, highlighted by the presence of the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE) in Tallinn. The city also hosted the 52nd Conference of Commandants in May 2023, bringing together military and defence education leaders from NATO and partner nations to strengthen cooperation in national security leadership. Estonia’s engagement with the NDC is equally significant, with 57 Estonian Course Members having participated in various courses over the years.
NDC Public Affairs Office
(Prepared by Ms Britt Melinga, NLD C)
NATO Defense College