KDH and PS Welcome Conclusions of NATO Summit in Ankara

Bratislava, 8 July (TASR) - The opposition's Christian Democratic Movement (KDH) and Progressive Slovakia (PS) parties have welcomed the conclusions of the NATO summit in Ankara on defence investment, TASR learnt on Wednesday. Given the persistent security challenges facing Europe, KDH stated that Slovakia must invest rationally in its defence capabilities. However, it insisted that such spending must be subject to strict oversight, remain transparent and demonstrably strengthen the country's security. According to MP Tomas Valasek (PS), the NATO summit delivered good news for Slovakia, showing that the Alliance is making progress and continuing the shift of responsibility from the United States to Europe. "We are fully aware that rational investment in Slovakia's defence is essential to safeguard the independence and territorial integrity of our country as a proud member of NATO. However, these investments must go hand in hand with maintaining the state's social responsibility. Funds must be spent exclusively on acquiring military capabilities that will enable our armed forces to defend Slovakia against the new and modern threats the free world has faced in recent years," said KDH chair and MP Milan Majersky. In this context, KDH underlined that the Slovak government bears full responsibility for the efficient management of public funds. The party emphasised that the increased defence budget must not become an opportunity for non-transparent practices. Valasek noted that European allies and Canada are increasing their military budgets and ordering new equipment. "They're also expanding their armed forces so that European allies can maintain the ability to deter Russia from launching an attack even after the partial withdrawal of US forces, and, if necessary, defend the continent. All of this is excellent news for Slovakia because we have no better security guarantee than NATO, and we will not find one," he added. mf