PM Fico Attends Opening of New Hoval Plant, Says Foreign Investment Welcome (2)

Istebne, 26 August (TASR) - Foreign investment is welcome in Slovakia, and every investor can count on assistance from the relevant ministries and specialised state agencies, said Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) on Tuesday during the official opening of a new plant for producing heat pumps built by Liechtenstein-based company Hoval in the village of Istebne (Zilina region). The opening ceremony was also attended by other representatives of the Slovak and Liechtenstein governments. "Slovakia is fully oriented towards car manufacturing and supplies for that type of production. When any fluctuation occurs in a country like Germany, Slovakia's economic growth is affected immediately. Diversification into production with high-added value is extremely important for Slovakia," Fico stressed. Built with an investment of around €60 million, the new plant is expected to create 250 new jobs by 2030. The government approved €8 million in tax relief for the company, which aims to produce as many as 32,000 heat pumps annually. Economy Minister Denisa Sakova (Voice–SD) clarified that the company receiving the tax relief committed itself to building a plant for the production of heat pumps and to creating a sufficient number of jobs. "The average salary per employee is approximately €2,600 [per month], which is nearly double the average salary in this region," she added. The factory is equipped with the latest technologies that improve efficiency and speed of work, as well as systems that support workers. "We're currently hiring about five to ten employees per month. These are not mass recruitments, so we expect gradual growth," noted plant director Tomas Hornak. He added that the company is developing cooperation with secondary schools and universities, as it needs people not only capable of producing heat pumps but also of installing and servicing them. "We want to introduce not only dual education; we're also considering launching a study programme specifically for air-conditioning technology," added Hornak. Istebne mayor Martin Kovacik explained that the investment will bring significant benefits in terms of reducing unemployment in the municipality and the entire Lower Orava area. "The company can employ not only blue-collar workers but also developers, senior management, research technologists and similar roles. Essentially, this firm can provide employment for all residents and others living in this area," said Kovacik. jrg/mf/df