Strengthening Cooperation between Estonia and the NATO Defense College
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The visit of the Estonian Ambassador in Rome H.E. Paul Teesalu to the NATO Defense College, on 24 October 2023, was an opportunity to discuss ways to foster bi-lateral cooperation between Estonia and the College as well as to address the College’s academic work on the war between Russia and Ukraine.
During an initial meeting between the NDC Commandant, Lieutenant General Max A.L.T. Nielsen , and the Ambassador, they discussed Estonia’s engagements with the College. They further exchanged views on the value that NDC courses can bring to the Estonian military and civilian officials and the reciprocal advantages derived from Estonia's active involvement, including the participation of Estonian Course Members and the assignment of staff and Faculty Advisors, at the College.
The Ambassador received a comprehensive briefing on the College’s organizational framework and activities, all of which aim to advance the College’s core mission to enhance the effectiveness and cohesion of the Alliance. The presentation highlighted how the relevant academic curriculum and timely research analysis conducted at the College, ensure that our Course Members get the best education and prepare them to understand our challenging global security environment.
A discussion followed with a particular emphasis on the academic curriculum segment dedicated to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Russia’s actions in the international arena, as this is a topic of high concern to Estonia. Additionally, our various Research Division publications and events that centered on Russian activities were a focal point of the conversation.
Wrapping up the visit, the Ambassador received a guided tour of the College's facilities. This included a visit to the Main Auditorium and rooms, where Course Members attend expert-led lectures, committee rooms where they openly debate and consolidate the topics addressed during the lectures, and the library, which offers an extensive collection of books, research publications, and various sources to support in-depth study of the subjects covered.
Ambassador Teesalu expressed genuine admiration for the College's endeavors and demonstrated a keen interest in strengthening Estonia's ties with the institution. He also appreciated NATO Defense College’s leadership proactive approach in engaging with Ambassadors in Rome from both NATO member states and partner nations.
Since March 29, 2004, Estonia has been a valuable member of NATO and has sent to date a total number of 56 course participants to the NATO Defense College.