On Thursday, Slovakia's exemption from the EU embargo on exports of Russian oil products ended. Although the Foreign and Economy Ministries are talking about a possible extension, the decision is up to EU member states. An extension of the exemption would be appropriate at least until the completion of work to increase the capacity of the TAL pipeline, Slovnaft spokesman Anton Molnár pointed out.
"The Economy Ministry is pushing for the extension of the exemption for the export of Russian oil products to the Czech Republic for another few months and we have also taken appropriate steps at the European level in this regard. We expect a decision in this matter in the near future," Peter Podstupka of the Ministry of Economy told TASR. The extension of the exemption is also supported by Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár, according to whom the diplomatic ministry "is taking appropriate activities in this direction".
Molnár pointed out that Slovnaft is the only export refinery in Central Europe and its production capacities fulfil an important function in the region's energy security.
Source: TASR
