Bratislava – Membership in the European Union provides significant advantages for both Slovak businesses and citizens. For Slovakia, being a small economy, it is vital to integrate into large and stable entities. This perspective was expressed by the Association of Employers’ Unions and Associations (AZZZ) of the SR in response to comments made by the Vice-Chairman of the National Council (NR) of the SR, Tibor Gašpar (Smer-SD), regarding a potential exit from the EU and NATO. This information was shared by the association’s spokesperson, Miriam Filová.
Filová emphasized that “any actions or populist remarks aimed at undermining this integration could result in economic and political isolation, a decline in investments, and a negative impact on the living standards of the population.” She noted that such statements send a concerning message to investors, which could diminish Slovakia’s credibility.
She urged a shift away from emotionally charged issues, advocating for a focus on rational solutions that would enhance the business environment. “These approaches will attract investments and ensure stable conditions for the sustainable development of Slovak companies,” she added.
In a news segment aired by STVR, Vice-Chairman Gašpar addressed the opposition party SaS’s proposal to enshrine Slovakia’s membership in the EU and NATO within the constitution. He recalled that Slovakia joined these organizations through a referendum and asserted that any potential exit should likewise follow this process, which he termed an extreme measure.
He clarified that Smer-SD does not currently intend or prioritize leaving the EU or NATO. However, he acknowledged that “both unions evolve over time and may alter fundamental issues or principles that were established upon our entry. Therefore, we must keep the option open for the possibility of considering such an extreme solution as exiting the EU,” Gašpar concluded. (January 18)
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