Estonian model Carmen Kass, the alluring face of Dior`s J`adore, is going to steer her career off the catwalk and into politics, informs Associated Press. The 25 year-old blond was formally put on the list of Estonian Res Republica ruling party`s 12 candidates to run for European Parliament. Kass, heralded as one the best known and richest Estonians in the world, has brushed aside criticism that she's a neophyte with no political experience and not qualified for public office.

The model plans to bring her native land more into the European picture by encouraging business and low taxation. The former Soviet republic will not progress by being grey and modest and "keeping to the background," she remarks. "I'm entering politics because, for the past 10 years, I've gotten a lot from the world, and everything I've gotten, I've gotten from Estonia. I want to give something back to Estonia." - Kass told Associated Press.

Born in Estonia`s capital Tallinn, Carmen was discovered by a talent scout aged just 14 and chose to travel to Italy, despite her mother`s mistrust for the industry. She soon became a sought after model for big advertising campaigns for Calvin Klein, Chanel, Donna Karan, General Motors, Guy Laroche, Krizia, and Versace.

Res Publica leaders said they hoped the frequent Vogue cover girl could use her fame to generate more interest in Estonia, including among foreign investors. "Carmen has lots of good ideas," says the party`s spokesperson.