Government okays Strategic Partnership Agreement between EU and Canada

The Slovak Government agrees with the conclusion of the Canada-European Union Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA). The agreement, however, still needs Parliament's approval and the signature of the Slovak president. According to the governmental report, the agreement aims to primarily strengthen cohesion in the development of co-operation between Canada and EU member states. The agreement is in line with Slovakia's foreign policy interests as well as its international commitments. The agreement was signed by the EU back in October 2016, along with the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the EU. The Cabinet agreed with the conclusion of the CETA in February, but the Parliament rejected it due to certain reservations, namely mining activities.