Slovak Coalition Council to Discuss Pro-Growth Measures; PM Fico Highlights Economic Strengths and Legislative Progress
Translated from Slovak, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The Slovak coalition council is set to discuss pro-growth measures on Thursday, with potential government decisions to follow.
- Prime Minister Robert Fico highlighted positive economic indicators, including Fitch Ratings' affirmation of Slovakia's 'A-' rating and successful bond sales.
- The government also approved a new Civil Code and discussed amendments to drug and social services laws, alongside advancements in autonomous vehicle technology.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced that the coalition council will convene on Thursday to deliberate on economic growth initiatives. These measures, agreed upon with Minister of Economy Denisa Saková, are expected to lead to initial government decisions shortly thereafter. Fico emphasized the positive affirmation of Slovakia's 'A-' credit rating by Fitch Ratings, noting its recognition of the government's fiscal consolidation efforts which have successfully reduced deficits. He also pointed to the successful sale of state bonds worth 700 million Swiss francs to foreign investors as a positive sign for the country's financial credibility.
Konsolidáciou sa nám podarilo znížiť aj deficit v roku 2024, aj v roku 2025, a to pod plánovanú úroveň
Beyond economic policy, the government has advanced significant legislative work. A new, recodified Civil Code, replacing one from 1964, was approved. Fico stressed the importance of this new legal framework, which governs daily life, and anticipates public and parliamentary discussion. Amendments to the law on medicines, concerning the reimbursement of exceptional drugs, and to the law on social services were also mentioned. Notably, Fico highlighted the upcoming introduction of autonomous vehicles in Bratislava, viewing this technological progress as a potential solution to future labor shortages.
Súčasný platí od roku 1964, prešiel stovkami zmien, potrebujeme novú právnu normu, s veľkou pozornosťou budem sledovať diskusiu v parlamente a vo verejnosti, pretože Občiansky zákonník upravuje a reguluje náš každodenný život
Fico also touched upon judicial matters, expressing confidence that Tibor Gašpar, Deputy Speaker of the National Council, will receive justice in the 'Očistec' case, similar to the former special prosecutor Dušan Kováčik. Looking ahead, Fico confirmed his visit to Handlová on May 15, the site of the assassination attempt on him two years prior. He stated his resolve to continue fighting for Slovakia's interests and warned against what he perceives as the opposition's efforts to foster terrorism.
Mám k tejto technológii veľký rešpekt, ale nemôžeme sa brániť pokroku
Originally published by SME in Slovak. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.