Estonia’s presidential couple begins state visit to Finland

The president of Estonia and his spouse arrived in Helsinki on Tuesday for a rare two-day state visit, Finnish public broadcaster Yle reports.

Estonian President Alar Karis and his wife Sirje Karis were welcomed by Finnish President Alexander Stubb and his spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb at the Presidential Palace in Helsinki. The visit began with a formal ceremony in the palace courtyard before moving to the central library Oodi.

Before the official welcome, crowds gathered at Market Square to watch the arrival. Among them were Helsinki residents Jouko Laurila and Mia Marttiini, who attended before work, and Anja Kummila, who brought her grandchild. Jaakko Torri sent greetings to Estonia.

During a joint press conference, the presidents discussed strengthening security cooperation between Finland and Estonia, including measures against drone threats.

Karis also met with other Finnish leaders, including Prime Minister Petteri Orpo at Kultaranta, Speaker of Parliament Jussi Halla-aho, Helsinki Mayor Daniel Sazonov, and City Council Chair Eveliina Heinäluoma.

The visit concluded with a programme at Helsinki’s central library Oodi.