At the meeting, the Slovak head of state noted that even though the two countries did not have permanent diplomatic representations established in their respective territories, the work of honorary consuls sufficiently covered their tasks. The Slovak President pointed out that the group of Malaysian entrepreneurs accompanying the Sabah Governor on his visit to Slovakia was a promising start to intensify economic and trade relations between the two countries.

“Slovakia can offer Malaysia cooperation in power plant construction and machinery and chemicals production in which we have extensive experience,” the President said. Another promising area for cooperation involves, according to the Slovak President, travel and tourism industry. “I can see particularly strong prospects in the wellness and spa tourism segment,” he added.

The Sabah Governor also considers the tourism industry one of the prospective areas for further development of mutual economic relations, with tropical jungles full of wildlife being among Malaysia’s top attractions for tourists. Both officials agreed it was necessary to support contacts among businesses, which may reinforce investment opportunities and bilateral trade balance.