The Republic of Estonia obtained its independence in 1991 and became an EU member country on 1 May 2004. The entry of Estonia to the EU was approved by referendum by a large majority on 14 September 2003.

Estonia is a parliamentary republic. Its head of government - the prime minister - is nominated by the president and approved by the parliament. He or she is in charge of the executive power vested in government.

The head of state - the president - is elected by Parliament or electoral college for 5 years. The Parliament has 101 members, elected every 4 years. The country is divided into 15 counties and 79 municipalities.

Estonia has 7 MEPs. It adopted the Euro on the 1st January 2011 and became member of Schengen area on 21 December 2007.

David SASSOLI, EP President in video meeting with Kaja KALLAS, Estonian Prime minister.