Kosice, Slovak Republic, November 9, 2005 - Recent media reports have referenced demands by the European Commission that Slovakia further reduce its National Allocation Plan (NAP) for CO2 emissions by another 1.5 million tons. U. S. Steel Kosice is extremely disappointed at this latest transparent attempt by the EC to stifle the growth of the Slovak economy through emissions cuts that are not necessary in order for Slovakia to meet its Kyoto requirement.
The EC´s request to reduce the 2005-2007 NAP by 1.5 million tons is inconsistent with the EC´s own rules and with the EC's own past refusal to allow ex - post adjustments to other NAP's. The EC's current demand is neither appropriate nor lawful and is an affront to Slovak sovereignty.

U. S. Steel Kosice is in full support of the Slovak Government in refusing this request for a reduction in Slovakia's CO2 NAP by over 1.6%. Such a reduction would further limit the growth potential of industry and jobs in Slovakia. This reduction on top of the 14% reduction already made last year to Slovakia's requested NAP would have severe implications for future employment and investment in Slovakia.

U. S. Steel Kosice intends to use all means available to protect its investment in Slovakia, including additional legal action

- E N D -

Further information:

Jan Baca
Director Public Affairs
U. S. Steel Kosice, s.r.o.
Tel.: +421 55 673 4476
Fax: +421 55 673 0330
E-mail: jbacask.uss.com