Slovakia has put its luxurious villa, which formerly served as its embassy in Oslo, up for sale at a starting price of 153 million Norwegian kroner (approximately 13.5 million euros). This property is located on one of the most expensive streets in Norway, signaling its prestigious position. Despite its ideal location and significant value, the Slovak government has decided to divest from this asset after the decision to close the embassy, an action that was part of the policies under Prime Minister Robert Fico's administration in 2024.

The decision to sell the embassy has sparked controversy among Slovak citizens living in Norway, many of whom feel a deep affinity for the country and its connections to Slovakia. Several Slovak diplomats are expressing concerns about this decision, arguing that relinquishing such a prime property may hinder future diplomatic relations. They emphasize the significance of having representative space in Norway, a country with which Slovakia values its diplomatic ties, and argue that if the need arises to reinstate the embassy, acquiring comparable premises will be a challenge.

Former foreign ministers Miroslav Wlachovský and Ivan Korčok, now a member of the Progresívne Slovensko party, also weighed in on the matter. They suggest that the sale represents a strategic error, emphasizing that maintaining diplomatic spaces can foster better relations and presence in foreign nations. As the situation develops, it raises pertinent questions about the future of Slovak diplomacy in Norway and the impact of governmental decisions on international relations.