Slovakia reaffirms humanitarian support for Ukraine

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has said that Slovakia will continue rendering humanitarian aid to Ukraine and support its rapid recovery efforts.

Fico made these remarks during consultations between the governments of Slovakia and Ukraine near Uzhhorod city, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media. 

“We are developing another package of humanitarian assistance for Ukraine to prepare for the upcoming winter,” Fico stated.

Bratislava aims to coordinate humanitarian supply needs with Kyiv. Besides humanitarian aid, Slovakia will assist Ukraine with electricity supplies and send non-lethal military support.

Earlier reports from Slovak media indicated that this would include demining vehicles to help clear areas. Fico expressed Slovakia's support for Kyiv's plans to achieve EU membership during intergovernmental consultations.

“Slovakia unequivocally supports Ukraine's accession to the EU,” the prime minister stated.

Addressing the issue of the conflict in Ukraine, he emphasised the importance of respecting the country’s territorial integrity. 

“Peace for Ukraine must be just and sustainable. It should have security guarantees, and its territorial integrity must be respected,” Fico said. 

The Slovak government noted that Fico and Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal will discuss a roadmap for enhancing cooperation between the two countries during the consultations. This document aims to expand collaboration in such areas as energy security, infrastructure projects, economic development, as well as contribute to a peaceful settlement in Ukraine.  

During the meeting near Uzhhorod, the ministers will also discuss the implementation of Ukraine's plans for EU membership. They will address issues related to cooperation in the defence industry, specifically focusing on the involvement of Slovak companies in Ukraine's reconstruction efforts. The previous consultations between the Slovak and Ukrainian governments were held in Michalovce town in April.

By Naila Huseynova