Slovakia's Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár (SMER-SD) says Europe must strengthen its security, economic competitiveness, and partnerships to shape its own future. Speaking Wednesday at a conference of Croatian diplomats in Zagreb, Blanár said Europe's security today rests on economic strength and resilience, and that the continent must be ready to take on greater responsibility rather than have its future decided elsewhere. He pointed to a functioning single market, investment, innovation, and affordable energy as keys to EU competitiveness, and reaffirmed Slovakia's support for Western Balkan EU membership based on merit. Blanár also highlighted Slovakia's bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2028 to 2029, noting it now has backing from 123 countries. His Croatia visit included talks with his Croatian counterpart and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.
Source: TASR
