Matecna Fears Caputova's Criticism of China Might Hurt Slovak Exports

Bratislava, July 12 (TASR) - Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Gabriela Matecna (Slovak National Party/SNS) doesn't like President Zuzana Caputova's criticism of China for violating human rights, as the Slovak Government would like to have friendly relations with China instead of confrontation that could endanger the development of business between the countries and thus even jobs in Slovakia, the Agriculture Ministry press team stated on Friday. "We've made extraordinary efforts to allow Slovakia to export dairy products to China. I'd be unhappy to see the statements of any public official put this promisingly developing cooperation ... in jeopardy. The role of public officials is to open doors for Slovak businesses, not to close them," stated Matecna. The ministry considers the fact that Slovakia has been authorised to export dairy products to China to be "one of the most important milestones in Slovak agro-diplomacy". According to the ministry, exports to China could significantly improve the situation in Slovakia's livestock production, increase the number of dairy cattle, bring investments and create new jobs. "China is a key global player and an important business partner for Slovakia. This doesn"t concern only the area of agriculture but also the economy. The main commodities that Slovakia exports to China are cars, machinery and electronics. The Slovak Government desires friendly relations with China, not confrontation," stressed the minister. Slovakia's trade balance with China recorded a deficit of €3.144 billion in 2018. zel/df