Slovak and Ukrainian Foreign Ministers Meet to Discuss Peace and Energy

Kosice/Bratislava, 17 October (TASR) – A bilateral session between the foreign ministers of Slovakia and Ukraine took place during Friday’s joint session of both governments in Kosice, the Foreign and European Affairs Ministry press department reported on the same day. Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer-SD) and his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha discussed the peace process related to the war in Ukraine, as well as key issues including energy, humanitarian aid, and Ukraine’s European integration process. As part of the talks, the two sides signed an agreement on the arrangement of mutual diplomatic representation – formalising the placement of Ukraine’s diplomatic mission in Slovakia and Slovakia’s in Ukraine. „By signing this agreement, we are resolving the issue of Slovakia’s diplomatic presence in Kiev and Ukraine’s in Bratislava. This concludes nearly 22 years of discussions on unresolved property matters," said Blanar. Blanar also welcomed the planned opening of a new Ukrainian General Consulate in Presov, where the Ukrainian Foreign Minister is expected to attend in person. According to the ministry, both sides reaffirmed a constructive dialogue based on communication and mutual respect. The Ukrainian delegation provided updates on negotiations aimed at establishing a ceasefire and peace. Minister Sybiha stated that Ukraine sees Slovakia as a constructive and acceptable partner that could diplomatically contribute to the peace efforts. „I confirmed Slovakia’s readiness to actively participate in this process and strongly believe that following the announced meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, the process will significantly accelerate," Blanar emphasised. Blanar reiterated Slovakia’s support for Ukraine’s accession to the European Union. mf