Bratislava/Zagreb – On Wednesday, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) urged Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković in Zagreb to support the resumption of natural gas transit to the EU through Ukraine. While expressing gratitude for the opportunity to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) via terminals on the Croatian island of Krk, Fico indicated that this option is currently more expensive for Slovakia, according to a report by TASR’s special correspondent.
Fico highlighted that Slovakia can meet its domestic consumption needs but is losing revenue from transit fees through its territory.
“Restoring gas flow via Ukraine should be in the interest of the entire European Union, as well as Slovakia,” he noted.
The Prime Minister stated that his visit to Croatia underscores the strong ties between the two nations. He expressed appreciation for the warm welcome received by the Slovak delegation in Zagreb and acknowledged the influx of Slovak tourists who visit Croatia for vacations each year.
During their discussions, Fico and Plenković addressed several matters, including the need to enhance bilateral trade, collaborate on illegal migration issues, and bolster the position of cohesion and agricultural policy within the EU’s multiannual financial framework. Both leaders recognized the positive trend in economic exchange, which Plenković noted has surpassed 1.5 billion euros.
Fico underscored Croatia’s crucial role in safeguarding the Schengen border, especially concerning Bosnia and Herzegovina. He offered direct support to Plenković, including technical and material assistance.
Although the two prime ministers acknowledged their differences on certain issues, both expressed a shared desire for an end to the conflict in Ukraine and a swift return to peace. They also plan to enhance collaboration in the cultural sector, with Plenković announcing a forthcoming cooperation agreement between their respective ministries of culture for the years 2025 to 2029. Discussions also touched on potentially strengthening cooperation in the defense industry.
Fico reiterated that EU membership has greatly benefited Slovakia, making it a strong advocate for enlargement and urging that countries meeting the criteria should be admitted to the eurozone as soon as possible.
Additionally, the Slovak Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with Croatian President Zoran Milanović and Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandroković during his visit to Zagreb. (April 16)
“Restoring gas flow via Ukraine should be in the interest of the entire European Union, as well as Slovakia.” Robert Fico.
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