Migal: Stable Oil Supplies from Kazakhstan Strategic Priority for Slovakia

Bratislava, 23 February (TASR) - Investments Minister Samuel Migal (Independent) has held talks with Kazakhstan's ambassador to Slovakia Zhanna Saginova on strengthening cooperation, especially in the area of securing stable oil supplies for Slovakia, the Investments, Regional Development and Informatisation Ministry told TASR on Monday. The main topic of the meeting was Slovakia's energy security and diversifying supplies in a situation in which supplies via the Druzhba pipeline remain interrupted. Economy Ministry State Secretary Szabolcs Hodosy also attended the meeting. Kazakhstan currently plays a key role in providing alternative sources of oil, thereby contributing significantly towards keeping supplies to the Slovak market stable. Both sides confirmed their interest in further deepening their energy partnership, which is essential for economic security and consumer protection. "Diversification of oil supplies is a strategic necessity. The current situation clearly shows how important it is to have stable, reliable and trustworthy partners. Kazakhstan is one of them, and we appreciate its active assistance to Slovakia at a time when we're facing disruptions to traditional supplies. I'm prepared to engage personally in finding solutions that will ensure that there is sufficient oil for the Slovak market in the future," said Migal. Hodosy also confirmed the importance of cooperation with Kazakhstan in the field of energy. "Kazakhstan has proven to be a reliable partner that has contributed significantly to stabilising oil supplies following the interruption of supplies through the Druzhba pipeline. Our priority is to continue building a strong energy partnership that is a foundation of the stability of the Slovak economy," said Hodosy. Ambassador Saginova confirmed Kazakhstan's readiness to continue close cooperation with Slovakia in the field of energy. "Energy cooperation is one of the pillars of our relations. We're ready to provide stable oil supplies to Slovakia and develop our partnership based on mutual trust and long-term cooperation," she stated. am/df