Prime Minister: Sudden Increase in Defence Spending Impossible

Bratislava, 8 June (TASR) - A sudden sharp increase in defence spending is unrealistic, but a gradual rise should be expected given the current situation, Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD) said at a Sunday press conference. Fico also emphasised that part of the defence spending must allow for dual use, meaning it can also be used for infrastructure that serves the public. “If a reasonable proposal is presented and the condition of dual use is met (...). But if someone thinks that because we're currently spending two percent, it will rise to five percent in a year or even in five years, they can forget it,” he stated. “A sudden increase is impossible,” he stressed. Fico believes that President Peter Pellegrini should once again convene a round table with representatives of all relevant political parties on this issue. “This is a question and a decision that will go far beyond the current electoral term,” the premier noted. lin