1st LD Writethru: Energy union can't be achieved without solidarity: Slovak president

The European Union's (EU) ambitious energy union project can't be achieved without solidarity, said Slovak President Andrej Kiska at the Central European Energy Conference 2015 on Monday.

Kiska cited the gas crisis of 2009, which was caused when gas supplies from Russia via Ukraine threatened Slovakia's energy security and almost 800 Slovak businesses had to halt production. This lead to losses worth more than 1 billion euros (1.06 billion U.S. dollars).

"During the crisis, we very much appreciated the solidarity and support shown by EU institutions," said Kiska, adding that thanks to the EU's support, the Slovak government's measures and action taken by companies responsible for the supply and transit of gas, Slovakia was now a more secure country.

According to Kiska, the ongoing crisis in Ukraine affects energy supply, hence why greater solidarity is required.

"It's the returning threat of cutting off natural gas supplies following what happened six years ago that was the motive and basis for the European energy union project. And an important feature of this effort was help for Ukraine. By launching reverse flows of gas, Slovakia has significantly contributed to increasing Ukraine's energy security," concluded Kiska.

Meanwhile, European Commissioner for Energy Union Maros Sefcovic said at the conference that the Energy Union Project is supported by all EU member countries.

"I can say that this project has the support of all EU-member states, as well as everyone involved, meaning national governments to parliaments, civil society and also individual organisations operating on energy markets," stressed Sefcovic.

According to Sefcovic, one of the reasons for the Energy Union's support is that it views the energy issue from a holistic perspective. Endit