The Slovak economy almost fell into stagnation in 2013. Its world rating on business environment and competitiveness declined as well. President Smer remained firm grips on Slovak politics and PM Fico announced his candidacy for 2014 Presidential race. At the end of the year，a far-right politician won the local election for governor of Banská Bystrica. Slovak and Chinese top leaders kept frequent meetings and the bilateral cooperation in the field of trade and investment developed well. Slovakia hosted the Summit 2013 on Central European Affairs. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Slovak Republic，Japanese prince and princess Akishino made an official visit to Slovakia.