Similar institutions in China and the USA should be added to the already existing Slovak institutes abroad, which promote Slovakia and its culture. In the end-of-year balance interview for TASR, the Minister of Culture of the Slovak Republic, Martina Šimkovičová (SNS nominee), stated this.
“Given the number, but also the activity, of the expatriate community in the USA, it is sad that such an institute has not yet been established there,” said the minister, who during this year’s working trip to the USA visited expatriate associations and organizations and spoke with them about the possibilities of support. “We are intensively negotiating the creation of the institute, but we must take into account the creation of a new American administration after the presidential elections,” pointed out the minister. She admitted that one of the possibilities is the creation of an institute on the grounds of the Slovak embassy.
According to her, the creation of the Slovak Institute in China has clearer outlines. “We also went to look at the premises where it is to be located, it looks perfect,” she stated.
The creation of institutes and the support and closer connection of Slovakia with expatriate communities is a common goal of the Department of Culture and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs (MFA) of the Slovak Republic. The state policy agenda in relation to Slovaks living abroad continues to be managed by the Department of Diplomacy. The Ministry of Culture will participate more intensively in the area of promotion and presentation of Slovak culture. “I was pleased how expatriate associations value our interest. I, in turn, can express my appreciation for their ongoing warm relationship with their native country,” she added.
With a view to the new year, the minister promises to intensify international cooperation, to which intergovernmental agreements with China or Brazil should contribute, for example. but also a memorandum of understanding for the period 2024-2029 with the United Arab Emirates.
It should include a presentation of Slovak culture and artists in Abu Dhabi next year, and a similar event should be held in Slovakia a year later. According to her, cultural rapprochement could also bring benefits in the field of tourism and economic cooperation.
