Blanar on Peace Day: Slovakia Promotes Resolution of Conflicts Through Diplomacy

New York/Bratislava, 21 September (TASR-correspondent) - Continuing armed conflicts, humanitarian crises and rising tensions around the world show that peace cannot be taken for granted but requires daily efforts and concrete action, Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar declared in New York on International Day of Peace, TASR learnt from its special correspondent on the same day. Slovakia continues to promote the resolution of conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue, respect for international law and an active role for the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security, Blanar said. The world marks International Day of Peace on 21 September, this year during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York, where Blanar is accompanying President Peter Pellegrini. The Foreign Ministry noted that Slovakia is currently seeking election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2028-2029. The election will take place at the General Assembly in June next year. "If elected to the Security Council, we want to be an active and constructive member that contributes to finding peaceful solutions and building dialogue. At the same time, we will promote the prevention and resolution of armed conflicts, respect for international law and the protection of civilians, while also focusing on new security challenges," Blanar stated. Slovakia's candidacy, under the slogan 'Respect, Dialogue, Stability, Peace', was presented by the foreign minister in July at UN headquarters in New York. The Foreign Ministry noted that Slovakia actively contributes to international peace efforts through participation in UN peacekeeping operations. More than 13,000 Slovak soldiers have served in 16 missions over more than three decades. Currently, 234 Slovak soldiers are serving in the UNFICYP peacekeeping mission in Cyprus, while another two are deployed with the UNTSO mission in the Middle East. Slovakia has also been facilitating dialogue between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot political parties for 37 years, added the ministry. In addition, through development cooperation and humanitarian assistance, Slovakia supports people affected by conflict and forced displacement, including in Ukraine, Iraq, Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. The assistance is directed primarily at the most vulnerable groups and includes healthcare and psychosocial support, access to drinking water and measures to strengthen food security. In Ukraine, Slovakia is also supporting the reconstruction of energy infrastructure, the construction of protective shelters in schools and kindergartens, as well as demining efforts. mf/mcs