On Friday, finance ministers of the Visegrad Four countries discussed the possibilities of a closer and more effective cooperation in finance and the economy. During the meeting in Warsaw, they focused on the economic challenges that Europe is currently facing and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The joint negotiations resulted in the adoption and signing of a joint ministerial declaration.
“I very much appreciate the opportunity to meet today and discuss the deepening of our cooperation in the financial arena. Today, more than ever, we need a strong Visegrad Four that can respond to current challenges,” said Czech Finance Minister Alena Schillerová.
“I am convinced that a united V4 can form and enforce its interests within Europe far more effectively,” she added.
In particular, the discussion revolved around the deepening of their cooperation in the fight against tax fraud and tax evasion as well as on taxation of the digital economy. The debate also touched on several other topics, such as increasing the effectiveness of the legal framework for combating money laundering and the conditions for the financing of the European Union budget in the future.
“I welcome our joint agreement on the need to place maximum emphasis on measures against tax evasion. That is fully in line with the long-term priorities of our government. Any further strengthening of cooperation between the V4 countries in this area is, therefore, very important to us,” said Schillerová.
“An equally important area, in which we have agreed to cooperate more closely, is the taxation of the digital economy,” concluded Schillerová.
Another meeting of V4 finance ministers under the Polish Presidency of the Visegrad Four will take place in June 2021 to evaluate progress made in the agreed-upon areas.
Title image: Czech Finance Minister Alena Schillerová signing the declaration in Warsaw (Alena Schillerová/Twitter)
