Pellegrini: Hungary Promises to Extend Protection of Slovakia's Airspace (2)

Bratislava/Budapest, July 18 (TASR-correspondent) - Hungary has promised to extend its assistance in protecting Slovakia's airspace until the end of 2025, Slovak President Peter Pellegrini announced following his meeting with his Hungarian counterpart Tamas Sulyok in Budapest on Thursday. "I am very pleased that next week we will be able to welcome to Slovakia the first two F-16 fighter jets that will gradually take control of our airspace, but until the end of 2025 we will still be dependent on Hungary's help. And I thank you very much for this help on behalf of the citizens of Slovakia," stated Pellegrini. He stated that Slovakia currently has neither any means of missile defence, nor its own military aviation, as the previous government handed over MiG-29 fighter jets and missile defence systems to Ukraine without adequate compensation. Sulyok noted that as commander-in-chief of the Hungarian army, he is pleased to be able to provide protection to Slovakia's airspace. Regarding the relations between the two countries, Pellegrini also praised the fact that the economic exchange between Slovakia and Hungary is growing, also pointing to the exchange of labour. In his view, this is also made possible by the improvement of the border infrastructure. He noted that the number of border crossing points has increased from 16 to 40 in recent years. According to him, future projects could focus on the development of cross-border rail links, where he perceives a certain lack. The Slovak head of state also highlighted the interconnection of the countries in the energy sector. "I'm very pleased that there is a project on the table that should significantly strengthen and increase the capacity of our gas interconnection by 2030 and beyond, which will again increase energy self-sufficiency, security and stability in the region," he stated, offering Slovakia's experience in building a new nuclear power source. In addition, the Slovak president confirmed his interest in having an adviser on minority issues from among the representatives of the Hungarian community living in Slovakia. He hopes to present his name in the autumn. Pellegrini invited Sulyok to visit Slovakia. am/mcs