Zelensky, Slovak PM discuss cooperation in trade, transport, energy

Their meeting took place as part of Zelensky's official visit to the Slovak Republic on Thursday, September 24, according to the press service of the head of state.

“During the meeting, the main attention was paid to discussing ways to expand cooperation in such areas as bilateral trade, transport, energy, and cross-border interaction,” the report reads.

Zelensky, in particular, expressed hope that, by joint efforts of the governments of Ukraine and Slovakia, the parties will be able to intensify work in all areas, which is also important to minimize the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for the economies of the two countries.

“I highly appreciate the fact that the program of the government headed by you reflects support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, the European future and the reform process in our state,” Zelensky said.

He also noted the priority importance for Ukraine of signing the agreement on the resumption of the full functioning of Uzhhorod International Airport.

Zelensky and Matovič agreed that maximum use of the transit potential of Ukraine and Slovakia should be a strategic priority of cooperation between the two countries.

The parties discussed the prospects for cooperation in organizing combined transport on the Asia (PRC) - Europe (Slovakia) route, as well as the creation of multimodal logistics centers (terminals) for handling cargo on this route.

The interlocutors welcomed the signing of a memorandum between the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine and the Ministry of Transport and Construction of Slovakia, which should contribute to the implementation of the transit potential of our countries.

They also exchanged views on cooperation between Ukraine and Slovakia in the field of energy and energy security.

"A common vision of the parties was stated that Nord Stream 2 should be viewed as a political project that undermines the energy solidarity of European countries," the report says.

Zelensky and Matovič also discussed further steps to implement Ukraine's European and Euro-Atlantic integration.

In addition, Zelensky also outlined the key priorities for cooperation between Ukraine and the EU.

As reported, President Volodymyr Zelensky is on an official visit to Slovakia on Thursday, September 24.

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