“I respect the will of the American people. It is the internal issue and, of course, whoever it is, I congratulate him. But I don’t want to judge this choice politically, subjectively, nor in any other way. Maybe this will come across as a bit simplistic, but bread will not be cheaper in Slovakia because of this.” Prime Minister Robert Fico
“I hope that he continues the policy of cooperation with Slovakia, so that we can respect each other and develop our relationship even further.” President Ivan Gašparovič
“I think we will continue along in the very good cooperation that the two countries have achieved. Relations are good right now, as they are also determined by our membership in NATO.” Foreign Minister Ján Kubiš
“President-elect Barack Obama should be congratulated. We should also commend US democracy and congratulate all Americans.” Milan Urbáni, vice-chairman of the HZDS coalition party
“In recent years, the US has been carrying a big burden on its shoulders, with a huge responsibility not only for its own development but also in the larger picture. Americans were tired, the burden was heavy. They longed for relief, to get rid of it, or at least to have it lightened.” Mikuláš Dzurinda, former prime minister and chairman of the SDKÚ
“Prime Minister Robert Fico has at least the same traits and qualifications for success as the new American president.” Economy Minister Ľubomír Jahnátek
“I hope that, at some point, Slovakia will elect a Roma or citizen of Hungarian ethnicity as president.” József Berényi, vice-chairman of the SMK
“It shows the development of US democracy, which has overcome some of its prejudices.” Martin Fronc, vice-chairman of the KDH
“A feeling of danger and worry about life motivated Americans to turn up in large numbers at the ballot boxes.” Anna Belousovová, vice-chair of the SNS
(See also related articles:
Slovaks and Americans greet US president-elect
Analysts hail Obama win)
Author: Compiled by Spectator staff from press and SITA reports
