Solovakia, Germany discuss Russian gas, Ukraine

Slovakia and Germany discussed the gas supplies from Russia and situation in Ukraine, as German chancellor Angela Merkel arrived in the country Monday.

The gas supplies from Russia and situation in Ukraine were the main topics during discussion between Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, President Andrej Kiska and visiting German leader Merkel, Xinhua reported.

Describing the recent cuts in gas supplies from Russia a "reason for serious concern", Fico said "supplies of such raw materials shouldn't be a tool in the political struggles of the supplier, and I believe that the attainment of peace and stability in Ukraine will also result in the attainment of stability in gas supplies to Europe".

Merkel emphasised the need for a joint course of action in promoting energy security in Europe, and praised Slovakia's efforts to cooperate by enabling reverse gas flows.

She expressed her commitment to ensure that talks between the EU, Ukraine, and Russia would be concluded in a timely manner so that the gas supplies were not disrupted during the winter.