Rastislav Chovanec is a public official and manager with a strong background in economic policy and international affairs. Since November 2023, he has served as State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, focusing on economic diplomacy. With over two decades of experience across government and business, Mr Chovanec previously held the role of State Secretary at the Ministry of Economy, where he was instrumental in shaping Slovakia’s economic direction. His expertise in government affairs also includes his tenure as Adviser to the Prime Minister on investment matters. In addition to his government service, he has demonstrated strong leadership in the private sector, as Chairman of the Board and CEO, blending public strategy with business skills. He has also worked in advisory capacities at the Office of the Government, where he contributed to foreign investment policies and national economic development strategies. He began his career at the Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency, working to bring global investors to Slovakia. Mr Chovanec holds a PhD in World Economy and a degree in International Business from the University of Economics in Bratislava, giving him a solid foundation to navigate today’s complex economic environment.