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Slovakia is heading toward its worst economic times as a result of the European Union's conduct in the economic sphere, according to Slovak Parliament Deputy Speaker Tibor Gaspar. In interviews with TASS, Gaspar outlined a series of concerns, including rising energy costs, the impact of the Green Deal, and a broader loss of competitiveness across the EU.
Coverage Comparison
Gaspar's remarks were carried by TASS in multiple reports. In one interview, he addressed the EU's overall loss of competitiveness, pointing to Germany's auto industry as a sector in crisis. In another, he discussed Slovakia's specific vulnerabilities as a landlocked nation dependent on energy transit. A third report, quoting the Slovak news outlet Dennik N, focused on the immediate economic outlook for Slovakia.
Key Claims
Gaspar stated that the EU economy is losing competitiveness, attributing this to a combination of factors including expensive and scarce energy resources, decisions made under the Green Deal, and spending on weapons and support for Ukraine. He argued that loans and investments directed toward these areas "economically hinder the future development of the EU."
He also expressed concern about the future of Germany's auto industry, saying it is "currently facing major problems." Gaspar questioned how long this situation could continue and called for a return to common sense, stressing that "ideology cannot determine what the economy should look like."
On Slovakia's energy security, Gaspar noted that as a landlocked country with no ports, Slovakia cannot supply itself with liquefied gas and depends on transit via existing or new routes. He linked the lack of competitiveness in European economies to decisions such as the refusal to supply energy resources from Russia and "rather harsh decisions" under the Green Deal.
Comparing energy costs, Gaspar said that electricity is one and a half times more expensive in Europe and gas three times more expensive than in the US. He also remarked that each country evaluates EU decisions to see whether they "benefit or harm member states."
Regarding militarization, Gaspar said that policies of this kind affect the EU economy and hinder its future development, as funds are diverted from other areas.