Blanar Attends Slovak Heritage Festival in USA

New Jersey, 22 September (TASR) - Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) attended the 47th Slovak Heritage Festival in New Jersey on Sunday (21 September), TASR was told by the ministry's communications department on Monday. This is one of the largest and most important compatriot events in the United States. The festival is an annual celebration of Slovak culture, language and traditions, which the Slovak community in the USA has been preserving and developing for almost half a century. "The Slovak footprint in the United States is strong and visible. Our compatriots here, far beyond our borders, not only preserve the language and traditions, but actively contribute to the development of American society and at the same time spread the good name of Slovakia in the world," said Blanar during the opening ceremony of the festival, which is an important pillar for maintaining Slovak culture, language and national awareness in the USA. The Slovak expatriate community in the USA is one of the largest in the world. The Office for Slovaks Living Abroad estimates that two million people of Slovak origin live in the USA. The festival is an annual meeting place for generations of Slovaks who pass on their Slovak heritage to their children and grandchildren. The Slovak diaspora in America today is also enriched by young people - students, scientists, artists and professionals. According to Slovakia's chief diplomat, this event "confirms the strength of our national identity and mutual belonging". Slovakia will continue to stand by its compatriots and support their activities that connect generations and build bridges between Slovakia and the world, he said. The festival, which was established in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the United States of America, is now one of the oldest regional events of its kind. am/df