Caputova and Macron Underline Strategic Partnership of Slovakia and France

Bratislava, May 31 (TASR) - President Zuzana Caputova and French President Emmanuel Macron at their meeting in Bratislava on Wednesday underlined the strategic partnership between their countries and discussed energy issues, the security situation and the fight against disinformation. Caputova perceives the visit by the French President as evidence of excellent mutual ties, while Macron called Slovakia a friend and ally. The two heads of state signed the Strategic Partnership Action Plan to lay the groundwork for further cooperation in the economy, science, research, education and energy. Also inked was a memorandum of cooperation in nuclear energy and the development of clean hydrogen technologies. "We need to strengthen our energy self-sufficiency and independence, while addressing climate-related challenges," said Caputova. Caputova and Macron accentuated that the two countries also share the same stance on the war in Ukraine. They discussed the upcoming NATO summit in Vilnius as well as the further security reinforcement of NATO's eastern flank. Another topic touched on was the fight against disinformation, with Caputova pointing out that Slovakia is extremely vulnerable in this regard. Macron would welcome the expansion of Slovak-French cooperation in this area. He explained that several initiatives already exist in France that are aiding the fight against disinformation. When asked by a reporter about the future of nuclear energy, Caputova replied that nuclear energy is an important and stabilising component of Slovakia's energy mix during an energy crisis, even though she finds it necessary to continue increasing the share of renewable energy. As for nuclear fuel, Slovakia discussed potential future cooperation with France. "France is a very important player for us in terms of expanding our diversification of sources," she said. Macron believes that Europe's ambitious energy goals can't be accomplished without nuclear energy, and he called for technological neutrality. The talks between the two presidents are slated to continue at a dinner at the Presidential Palace. mf/df