On 18 November, a street in New York City will be officially named in honour of the distinguished Estonian diplomat Ernst Jaakson, at a ceremony marking his extraordinary legacy.
Jaakson served in Estonia’s foreign service for more than 79 years – from 20 August 1919 to 3 September 1998 – making him the longest-serving diplomat in history. His most remarkable achievement was upholding the legal continuity of the Republic of Estonia throughout the decades of Soviet occupation.
Operating from the Estonian Consulate General in New York, Jaakson maintained close relations with senior American politicians and the Estonian diaspora, steadfastly advocating for his country’s sovereignty.
After Estonia regained its independence in 1991, Jaakson, then 86, was appointed Estonia’s ambassador to the United States and Permanent Representative to the United Nations – a fitting culmination to a life devoted to his nation.
The street section named after Jaakson lies in Manhattan, at the corner of 2nd Avenue and Tunnel Exit Street on East 34th Street – a short walk from the New York Estonian House and the Empire State Building.
The inauguration will be led by Estonia’s foreign minister, Margus Tsahkna, together with New York City Council Member for District 4, Keith Powers.
The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for 18 November at 4:00 p.m. local time.
