Ministers Matoz and Božinović Discuss Migration and Further Improving Security

After the meeting, Minister Franci Matoz said that cooperation between the two countries, their ministries, and their police forces is very good. He pointed out that the new Government of the Republic of Slovenia lifted border controls with Croatia and Hungary immediately upon taking office. He also pledged that "we will ensure security in a different, better way than was the case until now."

The ministers discussed illegal crossings of the Slovenian-Croatian border and the pact on migration and asylum, which came into full application on 12 June 2026. Slovenia has already partially implemented the pact and is applying it, which will improve the process of return, Matoz said. "We discussed the active return of migrants who illegally cross the internal border. In this context, it was also pointed out that Prime Minister Janez Janša, together with leaders of 18 other member states, signed a letter on effective implementation of the pact on migration and asylum - and a stricter policy toward what he called 'social tourism.' We both noted that Slovenia and Croatia are cooperating well in these areas. Through ongoing and regular mutual contacts, we will further improve our cooperation." Mixed patrols are also continuing: "There have already been over 400 of them this year. This is a guarantee of our commitment to ensuring safety and security, just as we have done so far. Our citizens have nothing to fear. We are directing all our efforts towards different forms of work," said Minister Matoz.

The ministers also discussed the upcoming summer tourist season and the activities of Slovenian police officers in Croatia and Croatian police officers in Slovenia. The Slovenian police have been participating in the "Safe Tourist Destination" project since 2011.

Minister Franci Matoz's visit to Croatia today is his first trip abroad, a fact that was appreciated by Minister Dr Božinović, who took the opportunity to congratulate him on his appointment as minister.

Press Statement by Ministers Franci Matoz and Dr Davor Božinović | Author Ministrstvo za notranje zadeve