Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico on Monday strongly supported the recently concluded India–EU Free Trade Agreement, describing it as one of the most ambitious trade deals ever reached, and assured Slovakia’s full backing for its rapid implementation. During the India–Slovakia exchange of MoUs and joint press statements with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bratislava, Fico said the agreement would open up major economic opportunities for both sides and deliver significant benefits to Slovakia’s export-driven industries.

He noted that Slovakia welcomed the agreement between the EU and India, adding that it was among the most ambitious FTAs ever signed. He also said Slovakia would take all necessary practical measures to ensure its quick implementation. Highlighting the importance of the automotive sector in Slovakia, Fico said reduced tariffs on cars—set at around 10%—would be particularly beneficial for the country’s economy.

He also invited Indian companies to invest in Slovakia, pointing to the country’s political stability, investor-friendly environment, and ability to support foreign businesses. Fico further expressed support for expanding cooperation through public-private partnership (PPP) projects, saying such initiatives would be welcomed by his government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in turn, thanked Slovakia for its support in finalising the India–EU FTA and said India would work toward its early implementation so that businesses, startups, and traders on both sides could benefit. PM Modi also highlighted the growing economic ties between India and Slovakia and said both sides had discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation in areas such as automobiles, railways, advanced manufacturing, and green technology, emphasizing the strong potential for future collaboration.

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