Slovakia and Austria are close partners not only geographically, but also politically and especially humanly. Slovak President Peter Pellegrini announced this after Monday’s visit of Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen to the Presidential Palace in Bratislava. Both declared that the countries’ relations are at an excellent level and both sides plan to further deepen them.
- Peter Pellegrini described Slovakia and Austria as close partners politically and humanly.
- Both presidents agreed that the countries’ relations are excellent and deepened continuously.
- Pellegrini expressed Slovakia’s prudence towards deeper integration in foreign and defense policy.
- The presidents identified the common priorities of transport modernization, energy security and industrial competitiveness.
- Alexander Van der Bellen also plans to talk with Robert Fico about the meeting with Vladimir Putin.
The presidents spoke together on bilateral and regional cooperation, as well as on current global issues and their effects. They discussed, for example, the current situation in the EU, as well as views on its future direction. For example, they touched on the issue of deeper integration of member countries. Pellegrini explained to his Austrian colleague that Slovakia remains cautious on this topic, especially in the case of common foreign or defense policy. At the same time, he emphasized that he respects Van der Bellen’s different point of view on this matter. In connection with war conflicts in the world, both presidents agreed on the need to find peaceful solutions and respect international law.
According to Pellegrini, Slovakia and Austria are focusing on modernization of transport infrastructure between countries or mutual cross-border cooperation. He also highlighted mutually beneficial business cooperation. According to Pellegrini, common priorities are also energy security or increasing the competitiveness of industry in both countries, especially in the automotive sector. Slovakia is also interested in strengthening professional dialogue with Austria.
Van der Bellen described the countries’ relations as excellent and very friendly. He also highlighted the unique proximity of the capital cities of Vienna and Bratislava. “Activity and mutual visits at all levels are intense, and based on these good relationships, very good programs and support for people and their daily lives can really develop.” added the Austrian president.
Both emphasized the importance of regional cooperation. Tuesday’s (May 12) summit of S3 presidents, which takes place in Bratislava, should also contribute to its development. “Strong and solid bilateral relations as well as regional cooperation are the cornerstones of effective cooperation at the European level,” the Austrian president noted. Both heads of state declared their interest in continuing to deepen cooperation at all levels.
The Slovak and Austrian presidents after Monday’s joint lunch move to lay wreaths at the grave of the unknown soldier in Bratislava. As part of the afternoon program, Van der Bellen is also scheduled to hold talks with the Chairman of the National Council of the Slovak Republic Richard Raši (Hlas-SD) and Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD). The Austrian president told journalists that Fica will also ask about the meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Saturday (5/9).
