Slovak and Ukrainian Foreign Ministers Meet to Discuss Peace and Energy (2)

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. The ministers also addressed energy cooperation. Blanar outlined Slovakia’s position on the European Commission’s RePower EU legislative initiative aimed at phasing out Russian gas and oil. Slovakia opposes the proposal, defending its national interests and warning of potential risks to EU energy security and competitiveness. Discussion also included the proposed 19th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation. Blanar informed Sybiha about Slovakia’s use of €101 million from the European Commission’s Ukraine Investment Framework to support Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure. The funding will support four Ukrainian energy projects over a 36-month period. „I also informed about a €500,000 contribution from our ministry for humanitarian aid, specifically for energy infrastructure equipment to help Ukraine prepare for winter," added Blanar. Equipment identified by Ukraine will be supplied by Slovak providers according to Ukraine’s needs. Modernisation of the Mukachevo–Velke Kapusany electricity interconnection is ongoing. Slovakia’s humanitarian support will also include new-generation Bozena demining machines, expected to be completed next year. Additionally, Slovakia has joined the Shelter Coalition initiative, aimed at constructing and restoring civil protection shelters. Based on a bilateral agreement, the effort will focus on school shelters in high-risk areas. The countries will also continue their cooperation in organising rehabilitation stays for schoolchildren, building on previous successful experiences. NOTE: This story has been extended to include paragraphs 10-17 mf