Fico: Slovak and Ukrainian Gov'ts Could Hold Joint Session by End of June

Yerevan, 4 May (TASR) - The Ukrainian and Slovak governments could hold a joint session in Bratislava or Kiev by the end of June, Slovak Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD) announced following his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Yerevan, Armenia on Monday. According to Fico, road connections between the countries and the expansion of border crossings could be high on the agenda of the joint session. Fico views a joint government session as the best format for continuation. It's not yet clear whether the session will take place in Bratislava or Kiev. "President Zelenskyy seemed to be quite flexible on this issue, so we'll probably try to organise the government session in Bratislava and see what the reaction will be," said Fico, who also stated that he is responsible for maintaining good relations with Slovakia's neighbours. Fico explained that he had identified several new issues that the governments should address. These include the road connections between Slovakia and Ukraine. "One day the war will be over, and Ukraine will be an interesting market, so any kind of connection - rail, air, road - will be very beneficial," he said. According to the Slovak premier, several new agreements will be needed in connection with implementing an EU energy programme worth €100 million. He also pointed to a further expansion of border crossings and railway links between Slovakia and Ukraine. Humanitarian aid is another issue. "It still holds true that Slovakia won't support any military loans to Ukraine and that Slovakia won't give Ukraine any weapons for free. If someone wants to buy something, let them buy it from us," stated Fico. ko/df