Slovak Foreign Minister visits Thailand and Australia

Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár has conducted a diplomatic visit to Thailand and Australia to strengthen bilateral ties and economic cooperation.

In Thailand, discussions with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeo focused on economic relations, defense industry cooperation, and expertise in IT, cybersecurity, and water management. Slovakia aims to serve as a gateway to the EU for Thailand, while Thailand views Slovakia as an entry point to Southeast Asia. A key request from the Thai minister involves seeking an exemption to allow Thai entrepreneurs visa-free access to the Schengen Area. Blanár also met with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to deliver an invitation from Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

In Australia, Blanár and Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová met with the Slovak community in Sydney. The visit included a presentation of Slovak culture and discussions on supporting the Slovak language and traditions among expatriates. The diplomatic mission also included the ceremonial reopening of the Slovak Embassy in Canberra.