Estonia and the other newly sovreign nations of Central Europe are returning to the great democratic family. Yet Estonia's economic success and openness so far, your remarkable growth and high rates of investment, prove that with civic courage and good policies, the path of economic reform can be traveled successfully. Today I urge you to stay on this path, moving ever forward. We have seen that in some places, stressful transitions can bring on political extremism. Yet Estonia's elections, free and fair, prove that the roots of your democracy have sunk deep and strong into this land.
History teaches that national independence can in some places stimulate national chauvinism.
Yet Estonia's fair implementation of its citizenship law and political participation of Estonian citizens of Russian ethnic origin show that Estonia is becoming a state rooted in law, tolerance and based on modern civic values. I am confident you will continue to practice the politics of inclusion, in order to build a future of harmony for your children. In this demonstration of tolerance, Estonia is a model for the rest of the world. I feel your pride. I share in the joy you have expressed as you have built this new independence.