Slovak President: September Foreign Policy Memorandum Affirms Commitment to EU Membership

Bratislava – Four months ago, the three highest constitutional officials of the Slovak Republic signed a Declaration on Slovakia’s foreign policy, which currently allows for effective political operations while reaffirming the nation’s commitment to the EU and NATO. This was highlighted by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini in a statement to TASR on Wednesday, as confirmed by the communication department of the Office of the President.

The President expressed his willingness to engage in discussions regarding foreign policy once the election for the Chairman of the National Council (NR) of the Slovak Republic has taken place.

According to the presidential office, “The Declaration on Slovakia’s foreign policy, signed by the three top constitutional officials four months ago, establishes Slovakia’s strong ties with both the European Union and the North Atlantic Alliance, while also allowing Slovakia to pursue an independent foreign policy in all directions.” This response was directed towards a proposal made by Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD).

Pellegrini emphasized that the declaration from September 2024 provides ample room for conducting daily political affairs. “However, the President is prepared to revisit this subject in a meeting of the three highest constitutional officials following the election of the Chairman of the National Council of the Slovak Republic,” the communication department noted.

The joint declaration, signed on September 1, 2024, by the President, Prime Minister, and the Deputy Chairman of the NR SR responsible for its oversight, Peter Žiga (Hlas-SD), affirms Slovakia’s steadfast commitment to the EU and NATO.

On January 7, the Prime Minister announced plans to propose a joint statement from the highest constitutional officials and coalition party chairs regarding the foreign policy direction of the Slovak Republic. He stated that this was in response to differing opinions than those advocated by Brussels, as well as the undermining of essential democratic principles. According to Fico, the proposed statement should also clarify the guiding principles for Slovakia’s foreign relations. (January 8)