Sutaj Estok: Defence Spending Hikes Should Be Directed Toward Dual-use Projects

Bratislava, 25 June (TASR) - Defence spending should be directed toward dual-use projects, Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Voice-SD) stated on Wednesday. Sutaj Estok is convinced that he and Defense Minister Robert Kalinak (Smer-SD) share the exact same view. „I say this as the chairman of Voice — that I have a fundamental problem with it, and I am against purchasing even a single additional bullet next year. If spending is to be directed toward defense, it must be dual-use spending. It must be for bridges, roads, hospitals, the protection of critical infrastructure, and the internal protection of our systems. Not more fighter jets, tanks, or anything of the sort. I say this ‘in quotation marks,’ but I’m convinced — based on the discussions I’ve had with the Minister of Defense — that he sees things exactly the same way,” Sutaj Estok said in his response to a journalistic question at a press conference. mf