Bratislava/Brazil – A historic visit by a Slovak government delegation to Brazil has yielded its first tangible outcomes. Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) made this announcement following his meeting with Brazil’s Vice President Geraldo Alckmin in the capital of South America’s largest nation on Tuesday. The Prime Minister emphasized the pursuit of a new cooperative framework involving the EU, Brazil, and other South American countries, as reported by TASR.
Fico expressed satisfaction at gaining clarity on how to enhance bilateral economic cooperation. Initially, he was scheduled to meet with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who was hospitalized on the same day after undergoing surgery to address brain bleeding. Vice President Alckmin stepped in to fulfill Lula’s responsibilities during this time.
The Prime Minister noted that no Slovak Prime Minister has visited Brazil since Slovakia became independent. He emphasized the significance of forming a new cooperative approach between the EU, Brazil, and regional associations, particularly highlighting the recent conclusion of negotiations for a long-awaited free trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur bloc, which includes Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
“We welcome the conclusions from Montevideo and will advocate within the European Union that this agreement represents a major benefit for the entire EU and particularly for the countries in this region,” Fico affirmed.
He reiterated that the Slovak government is committed to pursuing a balanced foreign policy while respecting its EU and NATO memberships. “You serve as an example of a nation that maintains independent stances grounded in respect for international law and non-interference in the internal matters of other countries,” he remarked.
Fico also pointed out that Slovakia aligns itself with the Group of Friends of Peace at the UN and values Brazil’s peace initiative for the conflict in Ukraine, developed in collaboration with China. “We are ready to provide our limited resources to support this plan in various ways. I am confident that Brazil, alongside China and other major nations, will play a crucial role in ending military operations in Ukraine,” he stated.
Furthermore, Fico asserted that Brazil could be pivotal in reforming the UN. Slovakia shares the view with Brazil that the UN Security Council should be expanded to include both permanent and non-permanent members. “This is why we are pursuing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the years 2028 and 2029. We support your candidacy and would greatly appreciate any support you could offer us in return,” he added. (December 10)
“We welcome the conclusions from Montevideo and will advocate within the European Union that this agreement represents a major benefit for the entire EU and particularly for the countries in this region.” – Robert Fico
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