Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) called on Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković on Wednesday in Zagreb to support the restoration of natural gas transit through Ukraine. He thanked him for the possibility of importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) through terminals on the Croatian island of Krk, but noted that this option is currently more expensive for Slovakia. Fico emphasized again that Slovakia does not have issues covering domestic consumption, but is losing out on transit fees through its territory. "The renewal of gas flow through Ukraine should be in the interest of the entire European Union, and naturally, also of Slovakia," he clarified.
Fico considers his visit to Croatia a confirmation of excellent relations between the two countries. He expressed his thanks for the warm reception of the Slovak delegation in Zagreb and for the Slovak tourists who visit Croatia annually for vacations. "I want to thank you for your hospitality, which is characteristic of you," he stated, also appreciating the support for the Slovak minority living in Croatia.
During their talks, Fico and Plenković agreed on several issues, including the need to strengthen mutual trade, cooperate on tackling illegal migration, and support the role of cohesion and agricultural policies within the EU's multiannual financial framework. Both prime ministers praised the improvement in economic exchange between the two countries, which, according to Plenković, exceeds 1.5 billion euros.
Fico stressed that Croatia plays a crucial role in protecting the Schengen border from the side of Bosnia and Herzegovina. As a result, he offered Plenković direct support in the form of technical, material, and other forms of assistance.
Although both prime ministers indicated they did not agree on all aspects, they both expressed a desire for the swift cessation of the fighting in Ukraine and for peace.
The two countries also plan to cooperate in the field of culture. Plenković announced during a press conference the signing of a cooperation program between the ministries of culture for the years 2025-2029. The prime ministers also discussed strengthening cooperation in the defense industry.
Fico recalled that EU membership has been highly beneficial for Slovakia, which is why Slovakia is a strong proponent of enlargement and believes that countries meeting the criteria should be admitted to the bloc as soon as possible.
The Slovak prime minister will also meet with Croatian President Zoran Milanović and the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament Gordan Jandroković in Zagreb. Fico is accompanied on the trip by the Slovak Minister of Foreign Affairs, Juraj Blanár (Smer-SD).
Source: TASR
