Sirje Karis says being present is the most important support

Sirje Karis said the most important support she can offer her husband, President Alar Karis, is simply being there for him. The couple discussed their relationship and family life on ERR’s Hommik Anuga programme.

“The most important support I have been able to give is simply to be there. To sit beside him and say nothing,” Sirje Karis said.

Alar Karis said the presidency had not caused tension in their relationship and had instead required them to support each other. “The most important thing in the presidency is to remain yourself; that makes it a little easier to do the job,” he said.

He described the past five years as an extremely interesting and enjoyable time, but said he would not miss it. Sirje Karis said she hoped to spend more time with their grandchildren. The couple have three children and six grandchildren, and Alar Karis said it was difficult to get everyone together, though the family usually meets at Christmas.

Their children sent messages by video during the programme. Their son Martin said his mother could return to cooking, gardening and reading, while wishing his father time to focus on himself and his health, and to listen to music. Alar Karis said he enjoys progressive rock and collecting vinyl records that were hard to find when he was young.

Sirje Karis said she had cooked less because she had not been at home. She usually prepares a turkey and Christmas cake for the family during the holiday season, making the cake a month in advance. Alar Karis said their home in Tartu had gathered dust and cobwebs because they were rarely there.

The couple’s summer home is in Setumaa, 15 kilometres from the Russian border. Alar Karis said they had not visited for five years for security reasons, and had chosen not to install cameras and other equipment there. Their children and grandchildren still go to the property.