The Visegrad Group remains an important platform for Central Europe and is far from finished. That was the message from Slovak President Peter Pellegrini as Slovakia officially launched its presidency of the V4 at Bratislava Castle.
Pellegrini rejected claims that the group had lost its relevance, saying the V4 is not a nostalgic project but a practical tool that allows Central European countries to defend and promote their common interests.
He acknowledged that cooperation has faced challenges in recent years but argued that difficult periods reveal the true value of regional partnerships. According to the president, Central Europe has learned from history that if countries fail to speak for themselves, others will make decisions on their behalf.
Pellegrini also stressed that respecting national interests is fully compatible with European cooperation. He pointed to migration as an example, saying the V4’s long-standing emphasis on protecting the EU’s external borders has proven to be well-founded.
During Slovakia’s presidency, Pellegrini will host a meeting of V4 presidents in Trenčín, this year’s European Capital of Culture.
Source: TASR
