President: Slovakia Must Stand Up for EU's Veto System

Brdo pri Kranju, 16 October (TASR-correspondent) - As part of any potential European Union (EU) reform, Slovakia must insist on preserving the right of veto on fundamental issues concerning its national interests, President Peter Pellegrini stated on Friday after the Arraiolos Group summit of presidents in Slovenia, TASR has learnt from its special correspondent. Pellegrini also warned against creating a system of two categories of EU member states, which could lead to the gradual break-up of the EU. "I refuse to accept that, on fundamental issues where Slovakia would no longer be able to defend its national interests, we should transfer decision-making powers to a majority whose decisions Slovakia and other small countries would then have to abide by," said Pellegrini. He stressed that unanimity in decision-making on key issues is crucial for Slovakia, adding that Slovakia would insist on preserving it. At the summit, the heads of state also discussed the future of the EU and its ability to respond to internal and global challenges. Pellegrini stressed that despite differing views on how to resolve specific problems, European presidents share a common goal: a secure and competitive Europe capable of delivering tangible results for its citizens. As regards security, Pellegrini supports efforts to strengthen European countries' defence capabilities, but this must be based on their own decisions, rather than prompted by demands from US President Donald Trump or fears of a possible military conflict with Russia. "We must invest substantial funding in our resilience and defence capabilities, but we must do so of our own accord," he said. Alongside security, however, European leaders must also focus on people's everyday concerns, including housing affordability, energy prices, healthcare, education and transport infrastructure, stated Pellegrini. If the EU focuses primarily on foreign policy and fails to adequately address the needs of its citizens, it could lead to growing frustration and social tension, he said. Pellegrini also praised the informal nature of the Arraiolos Group summit, as it allow presidents to discuss sensitive issues openly without having to agree on joint conclusions. In addition to the future of the EU, they discussed the weakening of the global order and the role of the United Nations Security Council. The summit was held on Thursday (15 October) and Friday at the invitation of Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar to cover questions of peace, security and prosperity in Europe, as well as the future of the EU amidst multiple crises. The Arraiolos Group is an informal political forum for the presidents of EU-member states with parliamentary and semi-presidential systems. Their annual meetings provide an opportunity to exchange experiences, views and visions, discuss the future of the European Union and address the challenges facing the international community. jrg