State Secretary Neva Grašič at 15th Africa Day International Conference

State Secretary Grašič during her welcoming speech | Author MZEZ

The event facilitated direct dialogue between diplomacy and the economy and encouraged the search for concrete solutions to shared challenges, particularly in the fields of the environment and sustainable development.

The first day of the Conference took place at Jable Castle, starting with the welcoming speeches by the State Secretary, Neva Grašič, the International Relations Adviser to the President of the Republic, Prof. Zlatko Šabič, and the Executive Director of the International Center for Promotion of Enterprises, David Tavželj. They emphasised the importance of enhanced cooperation between Slovenia and African states. Slovenia has been strengthening its diplomatic presence in Algeria, Ethiopia and Morocco.

The programme included presentations of the economies of the participating countries, with this year's focus on Morocco, as the country is set to open an embassy in Ljubljana. In addition to Morocco, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Namibia, Sudan, Tunisia and Zambia also participated. During the panel discussions, the participants talked about the possibilities for further development and economic cooperation between Slovenia and African states. The discussions were accompanied by a rich cultural programme.

In her welcome address, State Secretary Grašič highlighted the importance of cooperation with African states, which became especially relevant during Slovenia's two-year membership of the UN Security Council, when Slovenia worked closely with its African partners on issues such as international peace, security, multilateralism and sustainable development. This cooperation is focused on areas in which Slovenia is able to contribute its knowledge and experience, especially regarding water management, sustainable development, education and science. The Africa Day International Conference provides an opportunity to strengthen this partnership, based on mutual respect, trust and commitment to shaping a shared future.

The participants were also welcomed by the President of the African diaspora, Fred Uduma, who underlined the importance of the role the African community plays in Slovenia with regard to strengthening intercultural dialogue and establishing links between people, the economy and institutions. In his opinion, the African diaspora serves as an important bridge between Slovenia and African states and can contribute significantly to further development of cooperation in various areas.

The second day was dedicated to the Bled Water Festival, which focused on expert discussions on water sources, climate resilience and technological innovation. On the sidelines of the event, Ambassador Dr Ana Polak Petrič, candidate for the UN International Law Commission for the 2028-2032 term spoke to the African diplomats.