Bratislava – Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) of Slovakia believes that the current focus on Ukraine is diverting attention from the EU’s critical challenges. This was reported on Wednesday by the press and information department of the Slovak Government Office.
“In preparation for the European Council, I had an extensive phone conversation with European Council President, Antonio Costa. I expressed my surprise that we are prioritizing Ukraine once again instead of tackling the substantial economic and political issues facing the EU,” stated Robert Fico.
Fico emphasized that he has consistently reminded Antonio Costa of his unwillingness to discuss sanction packages against Russia until the EU summit provides political directives for the European Commission regarding the crisis in the automotive sector and soaring energy prices, which are undermining the competitiveness of the European economy.
“I reject the idea of serious issues being ‘resolved’ in broad terms in the European Council conclusions while specific decisions are made regarding support for Ukraine and the war. I informed Antonio Costa that we will propose much more concrete solutions for the automotive industry and energy prices on behalf of the Slovak Government compared to what is currently outlined in the draft conclusions,” Fico concluded. (October 15)
“I reminded Antonio Costa that I am not interested in dealing with sanction packages against Russia until I see political guidelines for the European Commission in the conclusions of the EU summit on how to deal with the crisis in the automotive industry and high energy prices, which are making the European economy absolutely uncompetitive.” Robert Fico
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