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Radicova: Car Manufacturers Significant Pillars of Slovakia's Economy
Wednesday 22 December 2010 Zoom in | Print page
Teplička nad Váhom, December 22 (TASR) - Slovak automobile manufacturers represent a major pillar of the economy – bringing new technologies onstream as well as enhancing the education and skills training environment, Prime Minister Iveta Radicova said during her visit to Kia Motors in Teplicka nad Vahom (Zilina region) on Wednesday.
Radicova praised the investments into the workforce qualification within the automobile industry. "All automobile manufacturers are preparing their new production to take place in Slovakia and, thus, significantly contribute to the growth of employment," said Radicova.
She stressed that employers repeatedly highlight the issue of qualifications and education at the talks, adding that such development is moving Slovakia closer to the European level.
"The employers have repeatedly pointed to the difference between theoretical knowledge imparted at schools and the actual needs in working with 21st century technologies," she said. Currently, Kia Motors is sending employees to qualification courses in Korea, Germany or the US.
Kia Motors President and CEO In-Kyu Bae said that Kia Motors Slovakia is investing into new models and the education of its employees, notwithstanding the difficult economic situation in Europe. "That's why our production and sales are successful. We launched production of two new models this year, with another one planned for 2012," said In-Kyu Bae.
Kia Motors Slovakia produced more than 207,400 cars in the first 11 months of 2010, which amounts to a year-on-year growth of more than 50 percent. Kia's facilities were built in 2004-2006 and the company currently employs more than 2,900 people.
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