Košice – The governments of Slovakia and Ukraine have signed multiple intergovernmental agreements following a joint cabinet meeting in Košice on Friday. The discussions also covered EU sanctions against Russia, as reported by TASR.
Prime Ministers Robert Fico and Yulia Svyrydenko formalized an agreement to enhance cooperation and information exchange regarding labor mobility and developed a joint roadmap for collaborative projects. Additionally, ministers from both nations signed agreements on technical and financial cooperation, amended protocols on border crossing agreements, and an arrangement for the mutual transfer of properties intended for diplomatic use.
“The word peace must be the key word of Slovak politics.” Robert Fico
Fico described the meeting with the Ukrainian government as significant, emphasizing that peace should be central to Slovak politics. He affirmed that Slovakia’s focus on humanitarian and practical support regarding the war in Ukraine is the right approach. “As the government of the Slovak Republic, I confirm that peace is our primary goal,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of having a stable neighbor like Ukraine to tackle shared challenges.
The discussion also included EU sanctions against Russia, Slovakia’s critical position on Ukraine’s NATO membership, and support for Ukraine’s EU aspirations. Fico cautioned the Ukrainian prime minister that those who currently support Ukraine may later impede its EU membership, asserting Slovakia’s commitment to clear positions: “If we say no, we mean it; if we say yes, we mean it sincerely.” The leaders also talked about gas transit matters.
During the meeting, they agreed to establish a Ukrainian school in Slovakia. Fico noted the need for 150,000 qualified workers, suggesting that the linguistic similarities would facilitate quick agreement in this area.
Svyrydenko expressed appreciation for the sincerity, cooperation, and solidarity displayed by Slovakia. She acknowledged the progress in joint projects, reflected in the signed agreements, and thanked Slovakia for supporting Ukraine’s integration efforts, highlighting the need to maintain national identity as a priority. She praised Slovakia’s initiative to open a Ukrainian school and anticipated a vital role for Slovak companies in Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Regarding anti-Russian sanctions, Svyrydenko presented data on the effectiveness of such measures and expressed confidence in the value of intergovernmental meetings, noting their pragmatic outcomes.
Fico received an invitation from Svyrydenko for further discussions in Ukraine, with details to be arranged later. (October 17)
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