According to the agreement, Estonia and Ukraine will continue to develop cultural exchanges and cooperation in a range of artistic fields including theater, music, fine arts, cinema and literature over the next 4 years.

The two countries will also increase cooperation in relation to libraries, museums, cultural heritage preservation and restoration, folk art, visual arts and arts education, as well as the development of their respective creative industries and cultural infrastructure.

"Estonia has been and will remain a steadfast supporter of Ukraine. We want to stand by their side in the cultural field as well – maintaining and strengthening the ties that help Ukrainians preserve, develop, and share their culture with the world even in times of war," said Purga at the signing of the agreement on Friday.

"This cooperation program is an expression of that commitment – a handshake across borders to affirm: we believe in you and we stand with you," Purga added. 

"I am confident that the signing of this program will be an important impetus for the further development of friendly relations between our countries," said Tochytskyi. 

He added that the agreement will "contribute to the deepening of Ukrainian-Estonian cultural cooperation, ensure the comprehensive development and popularization of the culture of both countries and be a strong confirmation of the mutual intention to exchange cultural experience."

In Tochytskyi 's view, the program will also help establish new contacts and improve mutual understanding between the people of Ukraine and Estonia.

The cooperation program entered into force on Friday, May 16 and is valid until December 31, 2029.

The ministers also visited the exhibition "The Face of Courage: The Indomitable Defenders of Azovstal" at Tallinn's Krulli Quarter.

More details about the cultural cooperation program between Estonia and Ukraine can be found here.

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