Fico Invites Zelenskyy to Slovakia for Gas and Bilateral Relations Talks

Bratislava, January 13 (TASR) - Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD) has proposed a joint meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Slovak territory near the border between Slovakia and Ukraine, to discuss gas transit though Ukraine and bilateral Slovak-Ukrainian relations, according to an open letter he shared on social media. "This meeting will create a good foundation for an open discussion about gas supplies to Slovakia and other countries via Ukraine, possible technical solutions considering the expiration of the contract between the relevant Ukrainian and Russian companies on December 31, 2024, the impact of halting gas transit through Ukraine on the declining competitiveness of the European economy, and the development of bilateral Slovak-Ukrainian relations," explained the premier. In the open letter, Fico reiterated that the decision to halt gas transit through Ukraine to Slovakia and other customers is causing extensive damage to Ukraine, Slovakia, and the European Union (EU). "My perspective isn't unique within Europe. Even if I were to not consider it entirely decisive that Slovakia loses around €500 million annually due to the stoppage of gas transit, the most important factor is the impact of your decision on the competitiveness of the EU, an organisation in which you are seeking membership," Fico stated. Note: This story will be extended. lin/mcs