Sino-Slovak relations are closer than ever and Slovakia is starting to play an active role in the dialogue between China and the European Union. This was stated by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico after his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, the TASR news agency reported, citing the government press service, BTA reports.
During the talks, the Chinese head of state said that he would visit Slovakia during his next European tour. Xi has pledged to cooperate in issuing licenses for the export of rare earth elements needed by Slovak industry.
Fico expressed hope that, following the investment by the Chinese battery manufacturer “Guoshan“, Beijing will support other Chinese companies to develop activities in Slovakia. He also welcomed the decision to continue visa-free travel to China for Slovak tourists after 2026. “I believe that the Slovak Cultural Institute in Beijing and the Chinese Cultural Institute in Bratislava will soon become a reality,“ the prime minister said.
The two leaders also discussed the topic of Ukraine, the reform of the international community, as well as the impact of the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event in Beijing was attended by more than 20 world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
“While others may focus on the military parade, I personally believe that the political messages expressed yesterday are more relevant. They cannot be ignored. The EU is increasingly losing influence on the international stage due to short-sightedness and narcissism,“ Fico said.
During his visit to China, the Slovak prime minister also held meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Vietnamese President Luong Dong. On Wednesday, Fico attended the military parade in Beijing.