Speech by Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of the state visit Slovakia, The Royal Palace
Amsterdam, 20 November 2012
Mr President,
I am happy to welcome you here today. Your presence recalls pleasant memories of the State visit I paid to your country some years ago. On that occasion, I not only had the pleasure of meeting you and your wife, but I was also able to learn something of Slovakia's very special culture, your friendly people and the fascinating beauty of your countryside.
Mr President,
You are the head of state of a young democracy that is almost twenty years old but able, at the same time, to look back on a history stretching over centuries. In fact, in the last two decades Slovakia would seem to have gained enormous momentum. The Velvet Revolution brought a decisive end to fifty years of oppression and foreign domination. Nineteen ninety-two witnessed the enactment of the Slovak Constitution, to which you personally made such an important contribution. It was the prelude to an historic event that took place one year later: the 'velvet divorce' between Slovakia and the Czech Republic. The carefully considered manner in which this peaceful separation was carried out was greatly admired on all sides. Over a decade later, your country was welcomed as a member of the European Union, acceded some years after to the Schengen Agreement and has been part of the eurozone since two thousand and nine. In this way, Slovakia rapidly became a fully-fledged, important partner in the European community. That was not only in the interests of your country, but gave the European Union itself a new impetus and enthusiasm.
The end of the Communist era also meant a transition to a new economic system. This change demanded great efforts and even sacrifices from the population. We observed the courage and perseverance demonstrated by the Slovak people in this difficult period with respect and admiration. And we have seen Slovakia develop in a very short time into a modern industrial society. In this process, its accession to the EU has been a clear stimulus. It has also created new opportunities for Dutch companies to do business with Slovak partners. Our cooperation has been further promoted by the manifest rise of a knowledge economy in which the modern universities founded in your country play a major role.
The European framework has brought Slovakia and the Netherlands closer together. Our bilateral contacts cover a much broader area than trade and economic issues alone. Ties of friendship have developed between various Slovak and Dutch towns and cities. Intensive contacts have been established in the academic field. Slovak students come to study in Amsterdam, while Dutch students follow courses in Bratislava. Numerous exchanges are taking place in areas such as ballet, architecture and design. In this way, increasing numbers of Dutch people are becoming acquainted with the rich variety of Slovak culture, not only in Bratislava, but in historic Košice, deservedly chosen as one of next year's European cultural capitals.
A special feature of our bilateral relations is the fact that our two countries will, in succession, hold the Presidency of the European Union in two thousand and sixteen. Of course, this will demand very close cooperation between all the responsible authorities. We look forward with confidence to fulfilling this task. In addition to our collaboration in the European Union, our countries work side-by-side in two other contexts: in NATO and in the United Nations. Our joint operations under NATO command in Uruzgan, where Slovak troops guarded CampHolland, was a unique period in our relations. We will always be grateful to you and your country for your support.
The important role that Slovakia plays in international organisations reflects the traditional openness of your country. Through its geographical position in the heart of Central Europe, your country has always been influenced by other peoples and cultures. From these reciprocal influences and its own traditions, Slovakia has forged a strong identity. This has made it possible for your government to pursue a wise policy with regard to minorities. During my visit to Slovakia I also witnessed the significant role non-governmental organisations play in your country, and with what firm conviction the government has supported them. Building a true civil society as an essential part of Slovak life is of crucial importance for social justice. The further embedding of the rule of law is also one of the major tasks facing your country. It is clear that your government is determined to accord high priority to these challenges.
Mr President,
Within a few months your country will celebrate twenty years as an independent state. May I invite all present to raise their glasses and join me in a toast to this anniversary, to your health and that of Mrs Gašparovičová, to a bright future for the Slovak people and to continuing cooperation between our two nations.