Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár stated that Bratislava is ready to support the 19th sanctions package of the European Union against the Russian Federation, provided that the European Commission finds a solution to the high electricity prices and aligns climate goals with the interests of the country’s industrial sector.
This is reported by Business • Media
Slovakia’s Position on New Sanctions
According to the Foreign Minister, the current version of the sanctions package should not directly impact Slovakia’s economy. At the same time, the minister emphasized the need to protect the competitiveness of key industries, particularly the automotive industry, which is strategically important for the country. Blanár highlighted that the government is actively discussing the impact of climate policy and rising energy prices on European industry. Slovakia’s expectation is that the European Commission will adjust the climate goals to support the industry amid rising energy costs.
“The current version of the sanctions package should not directly affect Slovakia’s economy; however, it is important that it does not threaten the competitiveness of key sectors, particularly the automotive industry, which is of strategic importance to the country.”
Hungary Will Not Block the New Sanctions Package
At the same time, the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that it does not intend to block the adoption of the 19th sanctions package. Budapest has reached an agreement to exclude from the package any measures that would contradict Hungary’s national interests. Therefore, the country will not obstruct the implementation of new restrictions.
The issue of agreeing on the sanctions package is expected to be discussed at the European Council meeting on October 23.