Foreign Minister Blanar Holds Talks with Russia and Ghana at UN Assembly

New York/Bratislava, 24 September (TASR) – Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) held a series of bilateral meetings on Tuesday (23 September) and Wednesday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly with his counterparts from Ghana and Russia, with the talks focused on strengthening political dialogue, bilateral cooperation, and exchanging views on current global challenges, TASR learnt from the ministry press department on Wednesday. The meeting between Blanar and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov followed recent talks between Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) and Russian President Vladimir Putin in China. The ministers also discussed the ongoing situation in Ukraine. „Slovakia is convinced that the conflict in Ukraine has no military solution, and the fact that it has lasted for three and a half years only confirms the ineffectiveness of a military approach. The only way forward is through diplomatic dialogue, which must be based on respect for international law, pragmatism and a willingness to negotiate. That is why we support an increase in momentum in peace negotiations between the two sides of the conflict," Blanar stressed, adding that both partners welcomed the peace initiative and diplomatic efforts of US President Donald Trump. Blanar also raised the issue of violations of NATO airspace, calling it unacceptable. Lavrov responded that in the case of Poland, bilateral consultations has been offered, but Warsaw has not made use of them. Energy stability in Slovakia was another key subject of talks. According to Blanar, it remains a strategic priority. „We appreciate the fulfilment of agreements on long-term supplies of Russian raw materials such as gas and oil, which are crucial for our economy and the daily lives of our citizens," he said. The meeting confirmed Slovakia’s interest in maintaining open communication channels. „Dialogue is necessary with all partners, even those with whom we may not always agree. Dialogue remains a key tool of diplomacy," Blanar added. In his meeting with Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Blanar discussed enhancing political dialogue and economic cooperation, with the aim of forming a comprehensive partnership. „Slovakia is interested in and taking steps to deepen relations with the Global South. We are opening new embassies in Algeria, Ethiopia and Tanzania, and we want to cooperate intensively with Ghana as a key West African country with global influence. Together we aim to establish a regular political and economic dialogue to strengthen trade ties," Blanar said. He highlighted potential cooperation particularly in the automotive and electronics industries. Further deepening of Slovak-Ghanaian relations will be supported by the new Slovak honorary consulate in Accra, opened in March. The ministers also discussed the possibility of a high-level visit, and Blanar asked Ghana for support for Slovakia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028–2029 term. mf