President Karis at the ESTO Youth Congress: Estonia begins with you
President Alar Karis said at the opening of the ESTO Youth Congress, which brings together young Estonians living abroad, at the Narva College of the University of Tartu, that Estonia is not confined to its geographical borders, but lives in Estonians and friends of Estonia all over the world. “Just as the task of lighthouses is to ensure a safe sea voyage and show the way to the home port, our spiritual outposts are Estonians all over the world. Estonia begins with the other. You are the beacons of Estonianness,” he said.
In his speech, the President said that the meeting in Narva has symbolic meaning, because Narva is a border town for both Estonia and Europe. NATO also begins in Narva. “In more anxious moments, it is worth remembering that never before in Estonia’s history have we had such strong security guarantees and friends and allies all over the world. Never again alone – that is the way it is,” the Head of State emphasized.
The President spoke about the meaning of borders and identity, recalling two prominent Estonian scientists abroad – medical scientist Ilo Käbin and engineer Valter Randa – whose life journey began in Narva, but who were carried around the world by the events of the war. Both scientists were characterized by a broad horizon and excellent language skills, which the President set as an example to the young people and inspired them to speak without fear of mistakes. “Be brave to speak even if your Estonian is not perfect. Language unites, not divides,” President Karis encouraged the young people.
President Karis also called on the young people to reflect on their Estonian story, talk to their family members and explore their roots. He also encouraged the young people to fulfill themselves where their talents can flourish. “Going forward never has to be one-way. Live where you want. Where your loved ones live. Fulfill yourself where your talents can flourish,” said the Head of State. “But know that the door to Estonia is always open. Come to study, come to military service, visit or build your own home here. All these doors are always open for you.”
Since this year marks 500 years since the beginning of the written word in Estonian, the patron of the Year of the Book recommended taking an Estonian book with you. “That way you will always have a friend who speaks Estonian to you, no matter where you are,” said the Head of State.
This year’s ESTO Youth Congress in Narva is part of the global ESTO 2025 program, which connects Estonians and friends of Estonia all over the world.
