Head of State to investors in London: economic success lies in smart solutions

President of the Republic Alar Karis said at the meeting with UK investors in London that the success of the economy lies in science-intensive and smart solutions. "Estonia wants to accelerate the introduction of smart technological solutions also in traditional sectors," said the Head of State.

At the meeting, President Karis emphasised the strength of business relations between Estonia and the United Kingdom. "We have a very good and strong economic cooperation, but it's always possible to strengthen ties, especially in the field of science-based solutions and innovation," he said and highlighted the development of the defence industry as one of the main growth opportunities.

The Head of State spoke about Estonia as a reliable and smart investment environment. He named the digital economy, cybersecurity capabilities, start-up experience and a strong education system as the main strengths of Estonia. "Digitality, entrepreneurship and world-class talent are the foundation on which innovation and sustainable growth can be built," said President Karis. He also introduced to the British investors the AI Leap Programme, which started in Estonian schools in the autumn.

According to President Karis, Estonia offers an attractive business environment for investors, supported by the state's investment support and a clear goal to make the business environment even more competitive.

The meeting with UK investors in London was attended by representatives of companies, some of which have already invested in Estonia and some of which are interested in expansion. Attendees included HellermannTyton, which manufactures micro ducts for the installation of fibre-optic cables in the Estonian company Höhle. Teledyne FLIR Maritime, a provider of thermal imaging solutions in the maritime and defence sectors, has a subsidiary in Estonia, Flir Systems Estonia OÜ.

The area of energy and green transition was represented by the Baltic Hydrogen Group, which is setting up Estonia's first large-scale green hydrogen production in Sillamäe. From the fintech sector, digital banking service provider Pockit, which recently acquired Estonian start-up Monese, attended the meeting. ADS Group, the umbrella organisation for the aerospace, defence and space industry of the United Kingdom, and MD One Ventures, a venture capital firm seeking new opportunities in the Estonian defence industry, were also present.

At the meeting with the honorary consuls of Estonia in the United Kingdom, President Karis expressed his gratitude for their dedicated work for the benefit of the Estonian state and society. "The honorary consuls are important partners in representing Estonia and defending its interests abroad, helping to strengthen our ties with the United Kingdom in diplomatic, cultural and economic relations," said the Head of State. He noted that several honorary consuls are also active entrepreneurs themselves, whose activities contribute to expanding opportunities for cooperation.

Photos: Office of the President of the Republic/Raigo Pajula https://www.flickr.com/photos/presidendikantselei/albums/