This year marks the 30th anniversary of Slovakia’s declaration of independence. For 30 years, Slovakia has been successfully working on its diplomatic presence and international relations. Slovakia boasts 91 diplomatic, consular, and cultural offices abroad, while 44 foreign embassies are located in the capital of Bratislava.
The reflection on the significance of diplomacy is best seen when we look back at our history. It was personal diplomacy that contributed to the peaceful division of Czechoslovakia in 1993. This approach not only paved the way for Slovakia’s swift inclusion in democratic international organizations but also solidified its commitment to maintaining effective diplomatic ties.
Beyond political matters, diplomatic relations have played a pivotal role in practical politics and trade. Moreover, cultural exchange and support of tourism have a special role in diplomacy. Let me mention a notable example showcasing the importance of cultural diplomacy. When Slovakia scheduled a meeting with the Minister of Culture for our Minister of Foreign Affairs in one foreign country in 2005, it was not met with full understanding by our planners because of the supposed economic dimension of the visit.
Despite initial skepticism of the meeting, the encounter left a lasting impression on the Foreign Minister. The meeting unfolded in a small Southeast Asian country, which, through its dedication to cultural traditions and minority rights, has emerged as a highly developed and respected nation economically.
I took this excursion to introduce the recent informal gathering of diplomats accredited in Bratislava on Monday, December 11. The event was organized by the Bratislava Tourist Board in cooperation with the city’s cultural institutions and was held on the river ship Harmonia during a cruise along the Danube River.
The Danube River symbolized unity and cooperation among nations. During the gathering along the Danube, diplomats engaged in lively discussions with representatives from the Bratislava Tourist Board and the city’s cultural institutions. Topics ranged from, among others, the current state of tourism in the city post-COVID to cultural events and the city’s transport accessibility.
The event, which was attended by the Board’s Chairman Vladimír Grežo, Head of Bratislava Convention Bureau Dávid Pobjecký, Operation Specialist Bohdana Jelemenská, and moderated by former Slovak Minister for Foreign Relations, analyst, and foreign affairs commentator Pavol Demeš, made a significant contribution to the celebration of 30 years of Bratislava as the capital of the Slovak independent state but also added a festive touch to the city’s pre-Christmas programs.
A photo gallery capturing moments from this unique and memorable event serves as a visual testament to the spirit of unity and collaboration that defined the day.
