site.btaSlovak President Kiska: Bulgaria Can Rely on Slovakia's Support Regarding Schengen, Eurozone

117 POLITICS-VICE PRESIDENT-SLOVAKIA-VISIT

Slovak President Kiska:
Bulgaria Can Rely on Slovakia's Support
Regarding Schengen, Eurozone


Sofia/Bratislava, September 19 (BTA) - "Slovakia is a true friend of Bulgaria and the latter can rely on its support regarding Schengen and the Eurozone," Slovak President Andrej Kiska told Bulgarian Vice President Iliana Iotova, who is paying a visit to Bratislava, the President Press Secretariat reported Wednesday.

Kiska congratulated Bulgaria on its successful EU Council Presidency. The two agreed that the countries in the Western Balkans must be offered a vision for a true European integration and to work towards the EU's development together with its member states. Iotova expressed hope that the next country presiding over the EU Council will continue with the policies started by Bulgaria regarding those countries.

The challenges and future of the EU were also discussed during the meeting, with migration being outlined as a main problem. The Bulgarian Vice President voiced hope that strong leaders with ideas will emerge after the European elections next year, who will work towards a new and restructured migration policy.

Populism is on the rise, as it offers simple solutions to difficult problems and relies on fear, Kiska noted.

Iotova in turn noted that the positions and interests and Central and Eastern Europe within the EU must be upheld, as these countries have not yet achieved the so desired equality and solidarity.

The two outlined the demographic problem and the shortage of workers as common problems for Bulgaria and Slovakia. LI/MY