Kiska: Country's Economic Success Depends on Investment in Education

Seoul/Bratislava, April 10 (TASR-correspondent) – In order for the country to be among the world’s most advanced economies, investments in education, young people and innovation are needed, stated Slovak President Andrej Kiska on Tuesday after meeting South Korean President Moon Jae-in in Seoul as part of his official visit to the country.

“Fifty years ago South Korea was one of the poorest countries in the world. Nowadays, it’s among the eleven most developed economies in the world. We discussed how to achieve this a lot,” said Kiska.

The Slovak president went on to say that South Korea is an extremely important partner for Slovakia. “More than 50 percent of investments from non-European countries have come from South Korea, with over €2.5 billion invested and more than 100 companies having created thousands of jobs,” said Kiska, adding that at the same time Slovakia is viewed as a successful and reliable partner for South Korea.

Regarding the upcoming Inter-Korean summit due to take place later in April, Kiska and Moon Jae-in concurred that dialogue is extremely important in this regard. “No intimidation, but dialogue and seeking peaceful solutions,” said the Slovak president.

Moon Jae-in welcomed the fact that in a short history of bilateral relations Slovakia and South Korea have managed to develop them consistently. He expressed his satisfaction that many Korean companies, including Kia Motors and Samsung Electronics, have been actively doing business in their home country while achieving positive economic results in Slovakia as well.

“After joining NATO and the EU, Slovakia was able to achieve political stability and rapid economic growth. You have been nicknamed the ‘Tatra tiger’, and your country also contributes towards international peace and security,” said the South Korean president.

After the meeting Kiska honoured the soldiers killed in the Korean War by laying wreaths at the National Cemetery in Seoul.