The shared past as well as continuing economic, language and cultural closeness between Slovakia and the Czech Republic form the basis for a longstanding and close partnership between Bratislava and Prague, Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) declared on the occasion of appointing Martin Muransky as the new Slovak Ambassador to the Czech Republic.
"We find common ground with the Czech Republic on the absolute majority of issues, which is why Slovakia continues to be interested in a quality cooperation to the benefit of inhabitants of both countries," underlined Blanar.
In this context, Blanar pointed out that the Slovak diplomacy is interested in opening new honorary consulates in Ostrava and Pardubice.
The minister pointed out that unique and close ties between the two nations also stem from familial connections between Slovak and Czech citizens and their joint businesses. "Currently about 242,000 Slovak nationals either work or study in the Czech Republic, making up the largest local ethnic community," said Blanar.
On Tuesday the minister also appointed Peter Susko as the new Slovak Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Blanar underlined that Slovakia perceives the United Kingdom as a key ally in the sphere of security as well as an important trade-investment partner.
In the past, Susko served as general director of the ministry's public and cultural diplomacy department and also headed a diplomatic mission in Croatia.
"The United Kingdom is Slovakia's most important European partner outside the EU, with which the island country continues to cooperate intensively even in the post-Brexit era," stated Blanar.
The new ambassador also underlined the expanding volume and potential of existing economic cooperation, pointing out that the bilateral trade balance is at an all-time high of €6.2 billion. "By actively presenting the Slovak Republic, networking with representatives of Slovak and British businesses and supporting our entrepreneurs, I will attempt to aid the further development of Slovak-British investments," claimed Susko.
Source: TASR
