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Foreign Minister Tsahkna at meeting with Saudi counterpart: the principle of sovereignty is under threat in both Europe and the Middle East

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

10.09.2025 | 16:43

On 10 September in Riyadh, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna met with the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, to discuss bilateral relations, the promotion of economic cooperation, Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and developments in the Middle East.

According to Foreign Minister Tsahkna, yesterday's Israeli strike in Doha and last night's Russian attack, which terrorised Ukraine and repeatedly violated Polish airspace, demonstrate that the principle of sovereignty of states is at risk both in Europe and the Middle East.

"Israel's strike in Doha yesterday violated Qatar's sovereignty and increases the risk of escalation in the region. Qatar plays an important role in negotiations on establishing a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages. These are the first steps towards achieving lasting peace in the Middle East, and the attack in Qatar undermines that process," Tsahkna said.

Speaking about Russia's aggression, Tsahkna noted that with last night's attacks against Ukraine, during which Polish airspace was repeatedly violated, Russia once again proved to be a threat to the security of the whole of Europe.

"Russia continues its war in gross violation of international law, ignoring its neighbour Ukraine's right to sovereignty and territorial integrity. Respect for international law and the principles of the UN Charter is also in the interests of the Gulf States," Tsahkna said.

The foreign minister stressed the need to continue strengthening both Ukraine's and NATO's air defence capabilities.

"NATO's and Poland's response to these large-scale airspace violations shows that the Alliance is capable of defending itself effectively, while deterrence - and air defence in particular - must be further reinforced," Tsahkna said, adding that the North Atlantic Council convening at Poland's request for Article 4 consultations demonstrates NATO's determination to coordinate further action.

The meeting was part of Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna's visit to Oman and Saudi Arabia with an Estonian business delegation from 7 to 10 September.