Slovakia Supports India's UNSC Bid During Modi's Visit
Strengthening Ties Between India and Slovakia
PM Modi accorded with Guard of Honour in the presence of his Slovakian counterpart Robert Fico, in Slovakia (Photo: PTI)
Bratislava, June 15: During a recent visit, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed strong support for India's aspiration to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). This endorsement coincided with the elevation of bilateral relations to a 'comprehensive partnership'.
In a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after their discussions in Bratislava, Fico emphasized the need for reforms within the UNSC, asserting that emerging nations like India deserve a permanent position at this influential global body.
Fico stated, "I would like to publicly declare that the government of the Slovak Republic supports a reform of the United Nations and we're strongly convinced that countries like India have to be, I will repeat this, they have to be part of the Security Council of the United Nations as permanent members."
He also highlighted the significance of international law in addressing global conflicts and commended India's swift economic progress, digital advancements, and developments in artificial intelligence, noting that India is "ahead of many advanced countries" in these areas.
This endorsement came as both nations agreed to enhance their relationship to a 'comprehensive partnership' following extensive discussions between the two leaders.
Modi remarked, "We have decided to elevate our relations to the status of a Comprehensive Partnership. This symbolises our shared beliefs, shared priorities and shared future."
Additionally, the two leaders discussed the prompt implementation of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is anticipated to significantly enhance economic ties between India and Europe.
Modi expressed gratitude to Slovakia for its backing in advancing the proposed trade agreement, stating, "We will work towards its earliest implementation so that industries, startups and traders of both countries can derive maximum benefit from it."
Regarding defence collaboration, Modi noted that the partnership reflects a "deep mutual trust and strategic convergence" between the two nations.
A Letter of Intent concerning defence cooperation was finalized during this visit, which both parties believe will invigorate collaboration within their defence sectors.
Fico characterized the India-EU FTA as one of the most ambitious trade agreements ever negotiated and pledged Slovakia's support for its execution.
In a personal note, the Slovak Prime Minister congratulated Modi on his record as India's longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister, calling it a "political miracle".
Fico remarked, "I cannot omit the political stability which you represent, Mr Prime Minister, in India. I congratulate you on the fact that you are the longest serving Prime Minister in India," while praising Modi's leadership and India's emergence as a significant global player during his tenure.
Modi's visit aims to bolster cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, transportation, renewable energy, emerging technologies, and defence production.
Before continuing his European tour, the Prime Minister is also set to meet Slovak President Peter Pellegrini.