Slovakia - Factors To Watch on Aug 20

BRATISLAVA, Aug 20 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press
reports and events to watch which may affect Slovak financial
markets on Thursday.

PM TO SACK MINISTER OVER IRREGULAR CONTRACT

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Wednesday he would
sack the environment minister after allegations of irregular
contracts, although this could break up the ruling coalition a
year before a general election.

[ID:nLJ110895] [SK-POL-VOTE]
------------------------ PRESS DIGEST -------------------------

EARLY ELECTION UNLIKELY

An early election is an unlikely scenario despite Prime
Minister Robert Fico's decision to take away the environment
ministry from his coalition partner, the Slovak National Party,
analysts say. Even if the SNS decides to pull out of the ruling
coalition, the government is likely to finish its full term,
observers say.

Sme, page 3

BIO FUEL TAXES

The government has decided not to change excise taxes on bio
fuels added to gasoline and diesel fuels. The neighbouring Czech
Republic has recently cut such taxes to zero, helping domestic
farmers.

Hosposdarske Noviny, page 5

HUNGARIAN PRESIDENT UNWELCOME

Slovakia considers a visit by Hungarian President Laszlo
Solyom, planned for Aug. 21, as a provocation as it will take
place on the anniversary of the Soviet-led invasion to
Czechoslovakia in which Hungarian army also took part. Slovakia
said Solyom is an unwelcome guest in Slovakia on that day.

Sme, page 2

For news on upcoming events in the United States and other
Group of Seven countries, see G7TODAY. For a diary of
forthcoming Slovak events, double click [SK/DIARY], and a
calendar of east European economic indicators, see [CONV/DIARY].
News editor of the day: Peter Laca on +421 5341 8402 fax: +421
5341 8403
E-mail: editorial@reuters.sk, peter.laca@thomsonreuters.com
Reuters Messaging: martin.santa.reuters.com@reuters.net
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