Consultation of Slovenian Diplomats: Slovenia is proving to be a principled and credible partner on the global stage

Group photo | Author STA, Boštjan Malovrh

The two-day diplomatic meeting, which will continue tomorrow, 29 August, is intended for topical discussions and exchanges of views on the challenges of Slovenian foreign policy regarding peace, resilience and security, on the values of multilateralism versus the power of multipolarity, and on the contribution of diplomacy to competitiveness, the economy and development cooperation. The Consultation will also feature speeches by the highest representatives of the state - the President of the Republic and the President of the National Assembly.

"In recent years, Slovenia has proven itself in this area on multiple occasions: within the Security Council as a voice of principle; within the EU as a builder of bridges; and in the Western Balkans as a credible partner. Slovenia's main strength lies in its principles, credibility and cooperation," Minister Fajon emphasised in her opening address. She added that Slovenia has responded actively and successfully to pressing issues this year despite the challenging international situation, highlighting the measures against Israel which our country was among the first in Europe to adopt. "Such actions, including the recognition of Palestine, are no symbolic measures; they hold up a mirror to the European and international community. Although we were not initially unanimous about them internally, these actions proved to be the right decision," she said.

According to Minister Fajon, Slovenia is working intensively through various initiatives to ensure sufficient and long-term humanitarian and development aid for Ukraine: it will allocate a total of at least 17 million euros in aid over the next two years. Within the Security Council, Slovenia maintains a policy of no double standards and remains committed to maintaining trust and seeking ways to ensure effective crisis response.

"Diplomacy will be an important profession of the future, weaving a network of coordinated partnerships, strengthening trust and fostering innovative cooperation. Slovenia can and must actively contribute to this endeavour - with courage, stability, vision and high-quality diplomatic service. Our goal is not merely to survive in global politics. It is to use diplomacy in shaping a world where decisions are made not solely on the basis of power, but on the basis of rules," concluded Minister Fajon.

In his address, the Prime Minister first thanked the Slovenian diplomats for their dedicated service and achievements which, in his words, enhance the reputation of Slovenia abroad. He illustrated the important role and potential of small countries on the example of Gaza: "If all countries in Europe had taken the same measures against Israel as Slovenia, the brutal war would be over by now. The task of small countries is to pave the way where large countries do not dare or do not want to tread. He emphasised that, with its principled conduct within the Security Council, Slovenia has shown not only that it does not have double standards, but that it truly believes in the principles of international and humanitarian law. Regarding the future of the European Union, he said that without a competitive economy and advanced technologies, the EU could be reduced to an insignificant international player unable to maintain the current standard of living for its citizens. Therefore, according to Prime Minister Golob, it is vital that Slovenia, together with like-minded countries in Europe, addresses politicians who believe that the EU can only be competitive and secure if we have more of Europe.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, who was to attend the Consultation in person but had to be excused due to illness, addressed Slovenian diplomats via video link. "Tonight's terror in Ukraine proves that Russia is mocking diplomatic peace efforts, including those of US President Trump. Russian imperialist attacks will spread unless we stop them," he stressed in his introduction. He called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, the establishment of a military presence under EU leadership and the provision of appropriate security guarantees. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining Ukraine's European perspective. He thanked Slovenia for assistance and support, including in intensifying pressure on Russia and holding it accountable for aggression and war crimes. "Slovenia's actions demonstrate that it has a strong diplomatic service that defends our shared values," he concluded.