America News Agency

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized the importance of preserving independence and defending freedom in a statement marking the 108th anniversary of the establishment of the Estonian Foreign Service.

Stating that historical experience demonstrates that independence is a right, Tsahkna stressed that defending this right is a shared and ongoing responsibility.

Tsahkna said that freedom cannot be protected solely through constitutions, treaties and international institutions, adding, "Freedom endures because of people who are ready to take responsibility for defending it."

Tsahkna noted that the Estonian Foreign Service has fulfilled this responsibility for 108 years and will continue to do so in the future.