Prime Minister Fico Supports Closer Armenia–EU Relations in Yerevan

Yerevan, 26 May (TASR-correspondent) - Slovakia strongly supports closer ties between Armenia and the European Union and is ready to share its experience, stated Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) during his official visit to Yerevan, where Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan welcomed Slovakia's support and noted that Armenia is currently working with the EU on liberalising visas. Fico and Pashinyan held a private meeting at the Presidential Palace in Yerevan, followed by talks between the delegations of both countries. They primarily focused bilateral cooperation and boosting economic exchanges. Both leaders can see mutual economic cooperation between Slovakia and Armenia particularly in the defence industry and nuclear sectors. "We have the same type of reactors, and we're jointly discussing the need to address the issue of nuclear fuel, what to do with spent fuel," said Fico, adding that specialised companies operating in both Slovakia and Armenia could cooperate on this issue. On Monday, Fico also participated in the ceremonial opening of the Yerevan Dialogue event in the Armenian capital. In his speech, he described Armenia as a key partner in the region and stated that Slovakia strongly supports closer ties between Armenia and the EU. "We'll also continue to support the presence of the EU observation mission in Armenia, as its contribution has proven valuable on many occasions," said Fico, who also praised Armenia's efforts in seeking a lasting peaceful solution with Azerbaijan. Prime Minister Pashinyan expressed gratitude for Slovakia's support in Armenia's cooperation with the EU and noted that the country is currently working on liberalising visa regulations. He sees broad potential for cooperation with Slovakia, particularly in nuclear energy and defence. The Armenian premier also accepted Fico's invitation to visit Slovakia. Fico arrived in Armenia on Sunday evening (25 May) along with a delegation of Slovak business representatives. On Tuesday (27 May), he'll pay tribute in Yerevan to the approximately 1.5 million victims of the Armenian genocide. Later, he'll meet President of the Republic of Armenia, Vahagn Khachaturyan. lin/df