Estonia marks 35th anniversary of restored independence with joint Riigikogu session
Estonia's Riigikogu held a ceremonial joint sitting with the August 20 Club to mark 35 years since the restoration of independence in 1991. President Alar Karis, Speaker Lauri Hussar and club president Ants Veetõusme addressed the gathering.
A ceremonial joint sitting of the 15th Riigikogu and the August 20 Club took place on Thursday in Tallinn, marking 35 years since Estonia restored its independence. The August 20 Club unites those who declared the restoration of independence inside the Riigikogu building on that date in 1991.
Speeches were delivered by President Alar Karis, Riigikogu Speaker Lauri Hussar of the Eesti 200 party, and club president Ants Veetõusme. Greetings were also sent by Icelandic President Halla Tómasdóttir, who is on an official visit to Estonia, as well as by the Speakers of the Latvian Saeima and the Lithuanian Seimas.
President Karis thanked Iceland, one of the first countries to recognize Estonia's independence, for its support during 1990 and 1991. He noted that the decision to restore independence set a clear course for the future, with all political forces of the time involved in drafting the new constitution. This marked Karis's final restoration-of-independence event as head of state.
A historic turning point
Veetõusme recalled the events of 35 years ago, describing the decision as not merely political but also a moral and historical one. He noted that uncertainty and fear were widespread at the time, but the people's belief that Estonia had to become free proved stronger.
According to Veetõusme, August 20, 1991 was not a random moment but the outcome of a long path that included the 1979 Baltic Appeal, the so-called Phosphorite War, the 1989 Baltic Chain, and the growing self-confidence fostered by the Night Song Festivals. He also stressed the significance of cooperation among the Supreme Councils of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania during those years, describing it as substantive and strategic rather than merely formal.
Thursday's commemorations began early in the morning with the ceremonial raising of the national flag, continued with the laying of bouquets at the August 20 Memorial Stone, and included the presentation of an anniversary postage stamp. The mixed choir HUIK! provided musical accompaniment throughout the events.
