Fico: We will never betray Serbia on the Kosovo issue

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico emphasized today that Slovakia respects Serbia's territorial integrity and will never betray it when it comes to Kosovo.

At a joint press conference with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Fico stated that it is a mistake that the two leaders do not meet more often, as today's talks highlight the potential of dialogue between nations that respect one another.

"I will reiterate that we respect your territorial integrity, and when it comes to Kosovo, we will never betray you," Fico stressed.

The Slovak Prime Minister praised Serbia's achievements in economic development and its balanced foreign policy approach.

"I must also acknowledge the care you show for Slovaks living here. They are Slovaks who love Serbia, the country where they live, while preserving the traditions they brought with them," Fico said.

He added that Slovakia fully supports Serbia's EU accession talks and will back any decision Serbia makes.

"I want to share Slovakia’s experiences from pre-accession negotiations and the mistakes we made along the way. We made errors, especially in energy security, and we can help you avoid similar pitfalls," Fico said.

Addressing the global situation, Fico remarked on the tension caused by the conflict in Ukraine, which has disrupted long-standing energy supply chains.

"I am proud to announce that we approved the next steps for the construction of a new nuclear reactor yesterday, which will not only provide sufficient energy for our country but also allow us to export electricity," Fico stated.

The Slovak Prime Minister revealed that he and President Vucic also discussed collaboration between water supply companies and ensuring universal access to water.

"Regarding security issues, Slovakia is willing to return its soldiers to the KFOR mission in Kosovo. We want to help you, and it is important for us to work with objective information," Fico emphasized.

He highlighted the quality of the friendly relations between Slovakia and Serbia, suggesting that these ties should translate into greater economic cooperation beyond the corporate level to encompass both nations' economies.

"If we manage to establish a direct flight connection, whether from Belgrade to Bratislava or Kosice—whichever you find more appealing—believe me, I will be the first passenger on that flight," Fico remarked.

He praised President Vucic for his sovereign approach to politics, emphasizing Serbia's cooperation with all global powers, and expressed confidence that each meeting between their nations' leaders would further strengthen bilateral relations.

"We are both committed to ensuring that the word 'peace' is not just something from textbooks but a way of governance. I reject the policy of war in Ukraine; it is a misguided strategy," Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico concluded.

Vucic: Peace is essential, some decisions fuel conflict

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stated that his meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico focused on strategic topics to strengthen bilateral relations and on the geopolitical situation affecting both Serbia and Slovakia.

"It is a great pleasure for me to discuss all strategic issues regarding the bilateral relationship between Serbia and Slovakia. We talked about enhancing our economic cooperation, improving collaboration in various sectors such as energy, tourism, and others," Vucic said.

He mentioned learning from Fico's example, particularly the implementation of tourism vouchers in Slovakia to encourage domestic tourism, a policy Serbia has successfully adopted for the past eight years.

"As you know, we've been implementing the voucher system in Serbia with great success for years. Soon, I’ll present new ideas inspired by Prime Minister Fico to the public, and I believe Serbian citizens will be pleased," Vucic added.

The discussions also covered critical geopolitical issues. Vucic emphasized the necessity of peace in Ukraine and the importance of avoiding decisions that escalate the conflict.

"What we both agree on is that peace in Ukraine is essential—not only for Ukraine but also for Russia, as part of the conflict is now taking place on Russian territory. Peace is of utmost importance. However, some decisions that have been made or are being considered only fuel the conflict, bringing no benefit to the warring parties or to us in Europe. Serbia will continue to follow the policy determined by our National Security Council over two and a half years ago," Vucic stated.

He reaffirmed the shared commitment of Serbia and Slovakia to defending the legacy of the fight against fascism and Nazism, emphasizing that both countries will oppose any attempts to revise history.

"Serbia and Slovakia will always honor those who fought against fascism and Nazism and participated in the liberation of Europe," Vucic said.

Vucic expressed shock and condemnation regarding the attack and assassination attempt on Robert Fico, describing it as a product of hatred spread against the Slovak leader for years.

"Robert is an extraordinarily brave man. Such individuals are rare in politics. Despite the bullets he metaphorically endured, he continues to fight and fulfill his duties with incredible energy and love for Slovakia," Vucic remarked, adding that Serbia immediately condemned the criminal act.

He noted that while such events have occurred in other countries, fortunately, they did not lead to such severe consequences as in Slovakia.

On broader political matters, Vucic highlighted the differing approach he and Fico take compared to the prevailing European and global trend of seeking dominance or victory over others.

"We want peace. We are not ashamed of that word; we are proud of it. That is how we will continue to guide our policy," Vucic concluded.