Slovak President Ivan Gasparovic gave the highest state award of the SR-Series 2 Class White Double Cross for extraordinary contributions to the development of the relationship between the Slovak Republic and Austria, and spreading the good name of the Slovak Republic abroad.
In his speech the President highlighted the efforts of the Slovaks for recognition as a minority in Austria as well as winner of the participation of two Slovak World Congress, which said the promotion of culture among peoples. “Our nations are living side by side for more than a millennium, but can not say unequivocally that he understood in all areas. Therefore, it is your merit, that relations between nations improves”, he said.
He appreciated the efforts of long-Erhard Busek the desire to continue our relationship is still improving. laureate Busek in his speech thanked for giving a high state award. Recalling the story of getting to know Slovakia by his parents because he has loved Slovakia, which in his words and his compatriots do not always have sufficient and objective information. “I sincerely wish Slovakia to continue to flourish. You have done creditable piece of work. Few believed you, but you did it”, said Busek.At the end of his speech Slovakia wished good luck and positive future.
Erhard Busek already in the 80 between Bratislava and attended one of the few Western politicians maintained intensive contacts with Slovak. On his initiative was in 1982, based in Vienna, Austria-Slovak cultural society. It was in recognition of the birth of a minority of Slovaks in Austria – mediate important contacts with influential personalities of the political and intellectual life has contributed to its official recognition in 1992. As one of the first Austrian politicians spoke during an event in November 1989 on the SNP Square in Bratislava. Intensive support democratic development in Slovakia. relations with the Slovak government is engaged in the office during many years of working in government. Still be given to them as well as a representative of major non-governmental organizations, where forum invites Slovaks themselves or to make an informed audience, conveys information about the Austrian political and economic developments in the Slovak Republic. Dr. Busek produces publications dedicated to the development of the SR, thereby contributing to the spread of extraordinary reputation of the Slovak Republic abroad.