France and Slovakia could become close partners especially in the field of nuclear energy and the issue of addressing youth unemployment, French President Francois Hollande and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico agreed on Tuesday during Hollande’s first visit to Slovakia.
Fico pointed out in particular the new 2013-18 Action Plan for Strategic Partnership between the two countries, under the terms of which co-operation is expected to develop in 14 specific fields. Fico broached the subject of the production of nuclear energy and the Allegro programme which deals with research into a new generation of safe nuclear reactors – a project supported by France in which Slovakia also participates. "The Government has a long-term interest in the construction of a brand new nuclear block in Jaslovské Bohunice power plant. Here, co-operation with France that has extensive experience with the production of nuclear energy, is opening up," Fico said.
During the round table talk Prime Minister also praised the leadership position of the French President in promoting support for economic growth and the creation of jobs for young people. According to him, and thanks in part to measures adopted by the EU, the worst stage of the economic crisis has been successfully overcome. "After this phase of the fight against the crisis, however, we need to react to the social impacts of the crisis and issues of economic growth," said the Prime Minister adding that, “Some good news like the creation of new jobs must come next.”
French President Hollande said that European leaders have a duty to shape the future of Europe in such a way as to give hope to its inhabitants. According to him it is necessary, "To prevent extremism, present in eastern as well as western Europe," which originates in "Frustration, hopelessness, and a fear of future."
