Slovak PM Visits China: Forging Partnerships for a Fairer Global Future

In recent news, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has stirred up international attention by visiting Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory over fascism in Asia. This visit has raised eyebrows, particularly as Fico was the only head of government from the European Union present alongside prominent figures like Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. Such actions have sparked debates about Slovakia’s foreign policy and its implications for the Slovak people.

The event in Beijing was a carefully orchestrated display, showcasing military parades and group photographs of world leaders. Messages such as “the world is changing” and “peace versus war” echoed throughout the occasion, clearly indicating that the Western narrative no longer holds a monopoly on global discussions.

Key Highlights from Fico’s Visit:

• Fico praised Slovakia’s “positive role in promoting China–EU relations.”
• He emphasized the need for “accelerating economic cooperation” with China to attract investments.
• Fico expressed a desire to “normalize relations with Russia” and increase gas imports from Gazprom, contradicting EU policies.

This visit was not merely about symbolism; it represented a significant shift in alliances as the “Global South” begins to assert itself against Western dominance. Slovakia’s engagement with countries like China and Russia reflects its historical experiences of colonialism and economic exploitation, similar to those faced by nations in the Global South.

A Shared History and Missed Opportunities:

Slovakia’s relationship with countries in the Global South is vital. Nations that have experienced colonial rule and economic subjugation share common ground with Slovakia, which has also faced challenges as a periphery in the global economy. After World War II, both the USSR and China pursued non-capitalist development paths, aiming to liberate their societies from imperialist dependence. This shared history of struggle against external domination should inform Slovakia’s current foreign policy approach.

However, Fico’s approach appears to lack depth. Instead of emphasizing cooperative ventures as part of a broader anti-colonial and anti-imperialist agenda, he resorts to anti-EU rhetoric. This strategy seems aimed at garnering domestic support rather than fostering genuine international solidarity that could benefit Slovak society.

The Central Question:

Ultimately, the pressing concern is not whether Fico presented himself well in Beijing or whether EU leaders felt embarrassed. The critical question is how these foreign policy choices will translate into tangible benefits for the Slovak people. Will strengthening ties with China or Russia lead to:

• Lower living costs for Slovaks?
• Improved healthcare services?
• Better funding for education?

At present, the situation in Slovakia remains challenging, with high food prices, underfunded hospitals, and a neglected education system contributing to youth emigration. No handshake with Xi Jinping or Vladimir Putin can alter these pressing domestic issues.

Focus on Domestic Accountability:

In a democratic society, governments are subject to change. If Fico loses the upcoming election, what will remain of this “eastern opening” if it is not connected to substantial domestic advancements? Grand strategies will falter unless they lead to real improvements in the lives of ordinary Slovaks.

Thus, accountability is crucial. The focus should not solely be on Fico’s photo opportunities in Beijing but rather on whether his government is using diplomacy to foster genuine social development. It is essential to prepare the next generation of Slovaks to engage with global politics in a way that prioritizes liberation over dependency.

Slovakia’s position in the international arena will not be determined by Fico’s proximity to Brussels, Beijing, or Moscow. Instead, it will hinge on whether foreign relations are harnessed to cultivate a society that is more equitable and less dominated by capital.

The critique against Fico is clear: while he vocally opposes Brussels, he fails to present a vision that could genuinely elevate Slovakia—one that articulates an anti-capitalist and liberating path free from exploitation. Without such a vision, his international visits may simply serve as electoral theater, offering little substance and failing to provide real value for Slovakia’s future.

Lucia Hubinská is a university lecturer, activist, commentator, and publicist from Slovakia who has participated in the BRICS Summer School in South Africa.