EU Countries Extend Slovakia's Exemption for Exports Made from Russian Oil

Brussels, December 16 (TASR-correspondent) - The chiefs of diplomacy of EU countries have approved an extension of the exemption for Slovakia's exports of oil products made from Russian oil to the Czech Republic by six months, Foreign Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar announced during a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council on Monday. According to Blanar, the decision was definitively supported by all EU-member states within the 15th sanction package against Russia adopted by the Union in connection with the conflict in Ukraine. Previously, this issue was dealt with by the ambassadors of member countries to the EU (COREPER). "This is an important success for Slovak diplomacy for the benefit of our economy, and thus also the citizens of Slovakia. We appreciate the consensus reached and, above all, the constructive approach of the member states, which accepted our arguments in favour of resolving energy security," said Blanar. The minister stressed that the extension of the exemption is important for the Bratislava-based Slovnaft refinery in connection with exports to the Czech Republic, but also with the availability of oil for consumption in Ukraine. "This will allow Slovnaft to implement technological changes and finalise measures needed for diversifying resources in the next six months. The sanction exception will also help to maintain price stability on the fuel market both at home and in central Europe as a whole," said Blanar. The original exemption for exports of oil products processed from Russian oil to the Czech Republic was approved last December and was valid until December 5, 2024. Monday's decision by EU ministers means that the exemption will be extended by six months. ko/df