President Pellegrini Visits Zvolen, Discusses Bypass with Mayor

Zvolen, March 24 (TASR) - President Peter Pellegrini's visit to Zvolen (Banska Bystrica region) on Monday included a meeting with the mayor, a visit to a civic association and a wreath-laying ceremony, while he and mayor Vladimir Manko also discussed the need to accelerate the design of the city's northern bypass. The president also praised the involvement of local government in the national 'Opportunity for All' project. As part of this initiative, two primary schools (Hrnciarska 1 and Jilemnickeho 2) will gradually develop their own projects to prevent social segregation. Other topics included the construction of rental housing and a project for a new swimming pool. Pellegrini commended a project to renovate the Pusty Castle area, which is being funded with €1.3 million, noting that the reconstruction will enhance the experience of visiting this historical site. "I also visited civic association 'A Heart of Gold' near Pusty Castle, which helps people in need in Zvolen and the surrounding area. They prepare food packages and have a storage space for second-hand clothes for those in need," he noted. On Monday morning, the president visited the Central Military Cemetery in Zvolen. After a wreath-laying ceremony, he called on Slovaks to commemorate the anniversary of the end of the Second World War. "When we celebrate the definitive end of the Second World War on May 8, let us hope that we can finally say that the war beyond our borders has ended as well," he declared. Manka added that the bypass around Zvolen is important and crucial. According to him, the traffic situation in the city is bad and is getting worse over time. He also mentioned the cultural landmarks in the city to the president. "Even the military cemetery now requires reconstruction, so we'll need this kind of help from the state," he said, noting that armoured trains, as well as monuments to the Red Army and the Slovak National Uprising will also need to be restored. lin/df