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[INTERNATIONAL] · Slovakia, Russia · 26 sources

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Slovakia and Russia resume intergovernmental economic commission

A Slovakian delegation led by Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár traveled to Moscow to participate in the 22nd meeting of the intergovernmental commission for economic, scientific, and technical cooperation. This marks the resumption of the commission's activities after a five-year suspension following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The discussions, co-chaired by Blanár and Russian Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov, focused on six key sectors: energy (including nuclear), agriculture, environmental protection, tourism, sports, and culture. A primary objective of the visit was to ensure Slovakia's energy security, specifically regarding the stability of Russian oil supplies via the Druzhba pipeline and natural gas deliveries.

Minister Blanár emphasized that Slovakia intends to maintain pragmatic relations and pursue national interests in areas not covered by European Union sanctions. He also warned of potential legal and financial risks, noting that Slovakia's state gas company, SPP, holds a contract with Russia through 2034 under a “take or pay” clause. Blanár cautioned that if EU legislation such as RePowerEU leads to a ban on Russian gas, Slovakia could face arbitration costs estimated between 10 billion and 16 billion euros.

The meeting concluded with an agreement to hold the 23rd session of the commission in Slovakia in 2027.

Entities

European Union · Juraj Blanár · Robert Fico · Russia · Sergey Lavrov · Slovakia · Valery Falkov

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