OREANDA-NEWS. June 18, 2008. President Toomas Hendrik Ilves started his visit to Kihnu and Ruhnu Islands today by planting a tree near the Kihnu School. Evelin Ilves inaugurated a children’s playground at the same school.

“I am happy to be visiting Kihnu School because this gives me an opportunity to express my great respect and thanks for the preservation of Kihnu culture and language, and for passing them on to future generations,” President Ilves said at a meeting with teachers and members of the local rural municipality council at the Kihnu School.

According to the Head of State, the survival of the school on the island is very important, because, “if the island loses its school, its young people will also disappear, and life will fade away.”

“Kihnu Island and your characteristics are needed not only by the residents of the island, but this island, with its soul and spirit is needed by all of Estonia,” President Ilves said. “Whereas, it is remarkable how you are able to link modern opportunities with old traditions.”

Today, the Head of State also visited a local museum and a church, became acquainted with the Kihnu Airport and Lighthouse, and also visited Jarsumae Virve.

In the evening, the Head of State will participate at the commencement ceremony of the Kihnu Basic School, where he will present the graduation certificates to the students, and afterwards, President Ilves will meet with the island’s residents at the Kihnu Community Hall.

Tomorrow morning, the Head of State will continue his visit on Ruhnu Island.