Annual gathering hosted by Kristen Michal featuring ex-prime ministers at a luncheon event
Former Estonian Prime Ministers Gather for Annual Lunch at Renovated Estonian Knighthood House
The Estonian Knighthood House in Toompea played host to a significant gathering on Tuesday, as the annual lunch of former Estonian prime ministers took place ahead of the Restoration of Independence Day on August 20. This year's event was hosted by the current Prime Minister, Kristen Michal, at the recently renovated Estonian Knighthood House.
The event, symbolic of continuity and collegiality among Estonia’s political leadership, brought together several former heads of government, representing various terms primarily from the 1990s through the early 2020s, along with the incumbent prime minister at the time of the event.
Attendees included Kristen Michal herself, Kaja Kallas (2021-2024), Andrus Ansip (2005-2014), Siim Kallas (2002-2003), Mart Laar (1992-1994 and 1999-2002), Juhan Parts (2003-2005), Jüri Ratas (2016-2021), Andres Tarand (1994-1995), and Tiit Vähi (1995-1997).
The gathering reflected the spirit of the Restoration of Independence Day, which celebrates Estonia's regained independence on August 20, 1991. Unfortunately, no additional official lists from other years were found, but this 2025 attendee list captures the major recent former heads of government.
Kaja Kallas, currently the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, was present at the event. Also in attendance was Juhan Parts, Siim Kallas, Andres Tarand, Mart Laar, Jüri Ratas, and Tiit Vähi.
It is worth noting that the event did not take place on social media platforms such as Facebook or X, contrary to any advertisements that may have been seen. The Prime Ministers' Reception was held in the Estonian Knighthood House, a historic building that has recently undergone renovation.
The event was a testament to the enduring spirit of cooperation and camaraderie among Estonia's political leaders, as they came together to celebrate a significant national holiday. The Restoration of Independence Day is a day of great importance to Estonia, marking the regaining of its independence after decades of Soviet rule. This annual lunch serves as a reminder of the unity and resilience of Estonia's political leadership.
- The annual lunch of former Estonian prime ministers, held at the renovated Estonian Knighthood House, provides a platform for discussing general-news topics related to Estonia's politics and government.
- The conflicting political views of former Estonian heads of government, as represented in this year's gathering, serve as a reminder of the diversity and complexity of Estonia's government and politics.
