Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) says Slovakia’s relations with China are now closer, and that the country is beginning to play a more active role in ties between China and the European Union. He made the statement after meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday. Xi said he plans to visit Slovakia during his next trip to Europe.
The Chinese president also promised to assist with export licenses for rare earths and minerals needed by Slovak industry. Prime Minister Fico expressed hope that, following the investment of Chinese battery maker Gotion, more Chinese companies will expand into Slovakia.
Fico welcomed the continuation of visa-free travel for Slovak tourists to China in 2026, and said he expects both countries to soon open cultural institutes in Beijing and Bratislava.
Source: TASR
