Estonian presidential candidate Madise called on the country to look out for its own interests
Estonian presidential candidate and current Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise stated that the country must look out for its own interests, ensure its own supply of food, medicine, and electricity, while remaining a reliable partner to its allies. She made these remarks in an interview with ERR News.
According to Madise, a strong NATO and reliable alliances are essential for Estonia’s survival, and the European Union’s single market is vital to its economy. At the same time, she emphasized that Estonia cannot be entirely dependent on other countries for jobs, raw materials, or electricity.
Madise noted that the era of unhindered globalization has come to an end, and international supply chains may face disruptions. As an example, she cited the COVID-19 pandemic, when border closures raised concerns about the availability of medications for chronic diseases, cancer treatments, and children’s medicines. She also pointed out that trade disruptions could cause problems on key maritime routes.
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The candidate stated that she aims to maintain political impartiality. In her view, in a parliamentary system, the president should not publicly dictate the “correct” economic policy to voters, particularly regarding taxes, state-owned companies, or business regulation. The role of the head of state, she said, is to maintain communication between society, parliament, the government, officials, and other institutions.
Madise reported that she encountered no objections to her candidacy during meetings with representatives of Isamaa, the Center Party, and independent members of the Riigikogu. She noted that the deadline for nominating candidates for the Estonian presidency is August 24.
Madise also dismissed claims that she had allegedly met with a representative of the Centrist Party in the spring regarding her possible nomination. According to her, she had not previously sought other positions and had hoped that incumbent President Alar Karis would agree to remain in office.
