Strengthened economic links with Slovakia.

On Wednesday, 12 November, at the Novotel Monte-Carlo, the MEB hosted an important delegation from Slovakia, led by H.E. Mr. Juraj Blanár, the Foreign Minister. Together with the Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SPOK), an economic forum was organized, including presentations and a B2B session, to build on the connections first made in 2013.

“In a time of profound global change, this forum holds more than symbolic value; it offers a chance to reinforce the connection between our economies, which are adaptable, innovative, and receptive to exchange, rooted in mutual respect.” With this remark, Slovak Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mr. Juraj Blanár emphasised the strong economic ties between the two nations at the opening of the Monaco-Slovakia forum. 

Relations commenced in 2013 and were strengthened through two partnership agreements with SPOK, first in 2015 and then again in 2017 during H.S.H. Prince Albert II's official visit to Slovakia. An economic forum was also held in the Principality in 2019. SPOK President Peter Mihók, a key figure in this partnership, expressed in French: "We are pleased to work with longstanding partners here because nothing replaces face-to-face meetings, exchanges, and consultations, which provide a solid foundation to develop this relationship."

Guillaume Rose, CEO of MEB, and his Deputy Justin Highman highlighted Monaco's economic strengths to the Slovak entrepreneurs present. Additionally, Fabrice Marquet, Managing Partner of Monaco Global Impact Business and a former MonacoTech Director, gave an engaging presentation called "Monaco, Land of Innovation," focusing on the initial challenges faced by AI.

Slovakia is dedicated to promoting a culture of innovation, particularly in robotics. According to representatives from the Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as a member of the EU and a key strategic hub in Europe, Slovakia has implemented a favourable policy to attract investors. This is bolstered by a highly skilled workforce and competitive production costs, positioning Slovakia as the leading car producer per capita worldwide.

Following these presentations, Slovak entrepreneurs provided brief overviews of their activities in various sectors including real estate, construction, printing, luxury automotive, technology, and innovation.

The chambers of commerce organised a pre-arranged meeting that allowed twenty-five companies from both nations to network and establish new international connections. More than fifty targeted appointments took place, indicating the development of a strong and lasting partnership.