Statement by U.S. Ambassador to the Slovak Republic Theodore Sedgwick

"The U.S. Embassy is shocked and deeply saddened by the hideous violence that occurred yesterday in Devinska Nova Ves. We are confident that the Slovak police will carry out a thorough investigation to ascertain the motive behind this despicable act, and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of those who perished, and our deepest hopes for a quick recovery to those who were wounded. As fellow residents of this lovely country, we greatly appreciate the peace and intimacy afforded us in this city, and grieve with you over this senseless loss of life."

Indiana National Guard Commander in Slovakia

General Martin R. Umbarger, Commander of the Indiana National Guard, further solidified the sixteen year State Partnership between the Slovak Armed Forces and the Indiana National Guard with his most recent visit to Slovakia on August 27th. (more)

New Fee for ESTA

Beginning September 8, 2010, travelers applying for ESTA will pay a $14.00 fee. The fee is payable online at the ESTA website by credit card or debit card. Each approved ESTA application will be valid for two years. This applies only to those travelling without a visa on the visa waiver program, ie Slovakia and other Visa Waiver Program members. The current cost of application for a tourist visa to the United States for non-Visa Waiver countries is $140.   Frequently Asked Questions  |  Často kladené otázky

OSCE media freedom representative commends US law against "libel tourism"

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatovic, commended the law signed recently by U.S. President Barack Obama to protect journalists, authors and publishers from "libel tourists".   Full text

Embassy Supports Roma Voice Competiton in Lučenec

A week long summer camp culminated in a voice completion on August 24 in Lučenec. Professional musicians worked with the children in preparation for the competition. In its 8th year, "Rómsky hlások" packed the crowd again with hundreds of spectators dancing and applauding throughout.

New Online Appointment System for American Citizen Services

In order to better serve the American citizen community in Slovakia and reduce wait times, starting August 1, the American Citizen Services Unit will operate by appointment only for all routine services, including passport renewals, extra passport pages, birth registrations, notarial services, and general inquiries. (more)

Remarks by Secretary Clinton on Intervention at Kabul Conference

Thank you very much, Minister Rassoul. And I am honored to join representatives from more than 70 countries and organizations to stand in strong support of a peaceful, prosperous, and stable Afghanistan. I want to thank President Karzai and the Afghan Government for hosting us today and for the months of preparation that were needed to make this conference a reality. (more)

U.S. Condemns "Cowardly" Bomb Attacks in Uganda

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and other Obama administration officials strongly condemned terror attacks in Uganda July 11 that targeted spectators who had gathered in Kampala at a restaurant and a rugby sports center to watch the final game of the World Cup, hosted by South Africa.  (more)  |  Statement by Secretary Clinton

Message by President Obama on Independence Day, 2010

Today we celebrate the 234th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the beginning of a great experiment, American democracy. In every corner of our country, we recall the valor and vision of patriots from Thirteen Colonies who declared independence from a powerful empire and gave birth to a new Nation. We gather in town centers and wave flags in parades... (more)

Trafficking in Persons Report 2010

"The 10th annual Trafficking in Persons Report outlines the continuing challenges across the globe, including in the United States. The Report, for the first time, includes a ranking of the United States based on the same standards to which we hold other countries. ..." (more)  |  Letter from Secretary  |  Trafficking in Persons Report 2010  |  Trafficking in Persons Report 2010 - Slovak Republic  |  2010 Trafficking in Persons Report - Slovenská republika  |  Trafficking in Persons Report 2010 - PDF  |  More Women Ensnared in Human Slavery

Retrospective in Blue – Sam Francis at Danubiana-Meulensteen Art Museum from June 20 to August 29

This retrospective of Sam Francis (1923 - 1994) is the first exhibition in Slovakia of the internationally recognized abstract artist. Francis had an extraordinary ability to express in his work a deep, almost mysterious perception of himself and reality. His work embodies (more)

Photo exhibit: "Barack Obama: Human - President" travels around Slovakia

A traveling exhibition of about 60 photos of President Barack Obama taken by White House Photo Office Director Pete Souza is being exhibited throughout Slovakia and will be on display at eight different Slovak cultural institutions. (more)