Brussels – Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) asserted on Thursday evening, following the EU summit in Brussels, that resuming gas transit through Ukraine would help lower energy prices across Europe. This statement comes in light of discussions on competitiveness, as reported by TASR correspondent.
Fico highlighted that during the summit, leaders focused on the eurozone, the euro, and the issue of competitiveness. He used this opportunity to emphasize the significant challenge posed by high energy prices, which he argues affects the entire Union.
“I want to reject the idea propagated by certain prime ministers that we must accept the current energy prices as a given and plan for a future where gas costs remain unchanged. There’s no justification for paying 40 or 45 EUR per megawatt-hour for gas just because President Zelensky chose to halt gas transit westward through Slovakia,” he stated.
The Prime Minister noted that the European Commission had released several action plans this year targeting clean industry, the automotive sector, and affordable energy. He mentioned that during the summit, leaders addressed three key issues identified by the Commission: eliminating regulatory and administrative burdens, lowering energy prices, and mobilizing private savings for the European economy.
Fico expressed disappointment with the energy action plan, indicating that Slovakia anticipated more immediate solutions rather than medium- to long-term strategies. He believes that restoring gas transit through Ukraine is a viable option that could contribute to lowering energy prices across Europe.
In discussing the union of savings and investments, he found the conversations to be compelling, particularly as European savings are currently mainly invested in the United States. He suggested that Slovakia could explore the involvement of pension management companies to discuss enhancing the active use of these savings, contingent upon the government establishing the necessary legislative framework.
Fico also pointed out that utilizing Slovak savings could facilitate investments in the military industry, aligning with the EU’s security enhancement plans, as well as in constructing rental housing and financing infrastructure projects. (March 21)
“I want to reject the notion of some prime ministers who argue that we must continue to accept current prices for gas and plan for the future accordingly. There’s no justification for paying 40 or 45 EUR per megawatt-hour for gas simply because President Zelensky decided to halt gas transit westward through Slovakia.” Robert Fico
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