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Gasparovic: Successes of Slovakia's Foreign Affairs Reason for Civic Pride
Saturday 01 January 2011 Zoom in | Print page
Bratislava, January 1 (TASR) - The results that have been achieved in the sphere of Slovakia's foreign affairs in recent years should be a source of real civic pride, said President Ivan Gasparovic in his New Year speech on Saturday.
"Successes of [Slovak] diplomats, who are active or are about to be active in the EU foreign service belong among the showpieces of [Slovakia's] foreign affairs. This is a big challenge, which examines the quality of our people and we all are deservedly proud of them," Gasparovic said.
Assessing Slovakia's international position, Gasparovic finds it comparable to other European democracies. "We're an equal and reliable partner, not only for our neighbours, but also for the European Union and the whole global community," he stressed.
Gasparovic described the year 2010 in Slovakia's foreign affairs as dramatic and important. "We had to face new challenges and threats," he said, adding that this is why he has also intensified his foreign activities as the head of the state.
"I'm aware that the protection of democratic values, security and our international commitments cost something - and not only in terms of money - but also in terms of Slovak soldiers participating in various missions," he said, praising Slovak soldiers and their work.
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