Not so long ago, Slovakia was only dreaming about Europe. Today, thanks to its authentic experience, Slovakia helps others to fulfil the dream, Foreign and European Affairs Minister and Vice-Premier Miroslav Lajčák said on Wednesday.
In his speech at Hlavne Namestie or Main Square in Bratislava, Lajčák was addressing invited guests at the gala event held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Slovakia’s joining of EU. The minister recalled the times when Slovaks could travel abroad only with passports and visas, and perceived the German mark, or French franc as the epitome of prosperity while Slovakia found itself at the bottom of economic prosperity chart in Europe. “Today, we travel to a significant part of the world without visas and in Europe particularly even without passports and border checks. In most parts of Europe we even use the common currency and find it strange and inconvenient to exchange currency for a vacation to Croatia or Prague,” he claimed. Lajčák broached the accomplished reforms, by virtue of which Slovakia enjoys one of the highest economic growths in Europe. “Our story is far from over. In comparison to our humble beginnings, we’re in a completely different position now. We’re part of a strong and prosperous community. The voice of Slovakia is widely respected due to our expertise, consistency and strong arguments buttressing our stances,” he added.
