BRATISLAVA, January 1, (WEBNOVINY) — In his traditional New Year’s address, Slovak President Ivan Gasparovic wished everyone more composure and confidence in themselves and their country in the year of 2011. He opened his speech by recalling the importance of today’s date — the eighteenth anniversary of the establishment of the Slovak Republic. According to the president, January 1 is first not only a new beginning in the New Year of 2011 but at the same time „the holiday of our modern statehood.“
He said that citizens “rightly expect from politicians and employers not to take their lives lightly. To be responsible, to accept a life of dedication, thoughtfulness and solidarity. So that the European Union does not make decision that remain on paper as empty promises.“
He pointed to the persistent problem of effectiveness of law enforcement. „In this respect, we all regardless of affiliation to political parties should set a realistic goal for the coming year to heal our judiciary. No one from the outside will come and put the internal situation in the country into order instead of us, nor are we asking for it. All of us are responsible for it who entered into politics. Although I am convinced that what matters most is the legal awareness and conscience of judges themselves,“ President Gasparovic said. „The desire of every politician is in particular satisfied citizens of the country. I know such satisfaction is a long way off for all of us,“ he admitted.
Slovakia should not rely on foreign help for job creation. Foreign investments are important, but jobs should also be created by investing in innovations and education. According to Ivan Gasparovic, „a new quality and responsibility is needed for ourselves and for others. Responsibility, not scandalizing [opponents – SITA note] at all costs“. The president rejects „distraction of attention from the real problem — maintaining social peace. Because it is no longer as strong as some time ago. In order to return security to people, we must give them education and jobs.“ The way to give people security is „better education and more jobs.“
SITA
