“Your service has taken you far from your next of kin and from homes where we will soon light the Christmas candles and wish each other a happy Hew Year. However, in the midst of all these festivities, our thoughts will be with you in Afghanistan, by the African coast where you take part in the European Union pirate fighting operations, in the Balkan, and in the Middle East,” wrote President Ilves in his Christmas and New Year greeting to the Estonian Defence Force members who are serving in international missions.

According to the Head of State, he is particularly thinking of the ESTCOY-11infantry company, with fighters deployed in the Wahid patrolling base and control stations in the vicinity: “You are contributing to the success of Estonia’s and NATO’s most difficult international operation – putting Afghanistan back on its feet and bringing this country back from the brink – in helping to decide when we can hand over control of security to the local army and police.”

According to President Ilves, the defence force members that are deployed in foreign operations have made a brave choice.

“Your choice will help to make the world a better and safer place. Your choice increases Estonia’s security. For this, I am grateful to you and feel proud of you,” wrote the Head of State, in wishing all the defence force members a peaceful Christmas and a pleasant New Year, as well as faith, hope, and patience to their next of kin.

“See you back home!” said President Ilves as he finished his Christmas and New Year greeting to the Estonian Defence Force members who are serving in international missions.



Office of the President
Public Relations Department

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