Words of appreciation for late Slovak ex-president

Former president Michal Kováč was a real European who understood that the future of his country as a democratic and free state lies in Europe, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said on Thursday. According to Juncker, Kováč served as the head of state in difficult times and his courageous defence of democracy and the rule of law helped bring Slovakia back on the European path. European Parliament Chairman Martin Schulz on behalf of the whole EU Parliament also expressed his deepest condolences to Slovakia over the death of former president Michal Kováč. He recalled that Kováč was a representative of a generation that had led a different life. "He experienced a dictatorship, oppression and war. Despite this, it was a generation that managed to show very strong pride, courage and to send signals and the spirit that it's worth fighting for a better future," added Schulz. Czech President Miloš Zeman called the late Slovak president Michal Kováč a brave man. "He was able to face harsh personal attacks, he did not choose an easier way and he did not give up," stated Zeman.