Estonian premier quits

Estonian Prime Minister Mart Laar has resigned after failing to patch up his crumbling coalition government.

Mr Laar said last month he planned to step down because political infighting was harming Estonia's prospects of joining the European Union and Nato.

However, talks were continuing as late as Monday between Mr Laar's Pro Patria party, and its partners, the Reform party and the Moderates.

His resignation automatically triggers the resignation of the entire goverment.

Long service

Mr Laar and the Moderates fell out with the Reform party after it held secret alks on local government alliances with the opposition.

President Arnold Ruutel will now have 14 days to pick a new prime minister and send his choice to parliament for approval.

The three-party centre-right coalition has governed Estonia since 1999, and Mr Laar, aged 41, has been the country's longest-serving premier.

Though many of its reforms have been unpopular, it has made Estonia a frontrunner for EU and Nato membership.

He will remain a caretaker leader until a new government is formed.