Minister Kajzer on the importance of EU unity at FAC meeting

Minister Tone Kajzer talking to the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas | Author EU

During the discussion on Russian aggression against Ukraine, Minister Kajzer agreed with the majority of his counterparts, who condemned last night's massive attack on Kyiv, which caused extensive damage to the Dormition Cathedral. He also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. "The barbaric attack on Kyiv, including on a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has claimed numerous lives, is completely unacceptable. We cannot allow such actions to continue without consequence. Russia must be brought to account," said the Minister.

He underlined that the new Slovenian government strongly supports EU enlargement, not only with the Western Balkans but also with Ukraine and Moldova. He was also pleased that today's intergovernmental conferences will see the opening of the first accession negotiations cluster for Ukraine and Moldova and called for the remaining clusters to be opened as soon as possible. "This will send a strong signal of EU unity and our commitment to the enlargement process," added the Minister.

He agreed with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul, who called for continued support for Ukraine, recalling that Slovenian Prime Minister at the time, Janez Janša, had been the first to visit Ukraine, together with the Polish and Czech Prime Ministers, where he advocated full support for Ukraine's defence against Russian aggression. "This message, and especially EU unity, remains highly relevant today," said Minister Kajzer.

He announced Slovenia's further increase of aid and support for Ukraine and called for increased pressure on Russia, the immediate adoption of the 21st sanctions package and heightened global awareness of the importance of holding Russia accountable for crimes committed in Ukraine.

During discussions on the Middle East, Minister Kajzer welcomed the agreement between the United States and Iran, which resulted from diplomatic efforts, particularly commending mediation by Pakistan and Qatar. He expressed Slovenia's expectation for a swift, comprehensive and consistent implementation of the agreement, adding: "The agreement must enable the rapid and unconditional opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Freedom of navigation is essential for regional stability and the smooth functioning of the global economy. The agreement also provides an opportunity for extensive talks on peace and security in the Middle East, which must include the issue of the Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile programme, as well as its role in destabilising the region. Without this, a solid and lasting peace cannot be achieved."

Regarding Lebanon, Minister Kajzer called for respect for the ceasefire, the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty and expressed continued support for the Lebanese Armed Forces through the European Peace Facility. In his speech, he noted the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the need for full implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution 2803, including the disarmament of Hamas.

The discussion on EU-China relations focused on economic and foreign policy aspects. Slovenia believes that a unified and coordinated approach regarding China is crucial. The EU's trade deficit with China is growing, increasing its exposure to this country. Consequently, the EU needs to do much more to reduce its strategic dependence and strengthen its own economic resilience. It is vital for the Union to engage in pragmatic, yet firm dialogue with China while consistently defending its key interests and values. The goal is to achieve more balanced, predictable and mutual relations based on fair competition, respect for international rules and the protection of our strategic interests.

Minister Kajzer praising Montenegro's progress in EU accession at the Intergovernmental Conference

The intergovernmental conferences with Montenegro, Ukraine and Moldova took place after the FAC meeting. At the Intergovernmental Conference with Montenegro, Minister Kajzer presented a joint statement by Slovenia, Italy and Greece, emphasising Slovenia's support for EU enlargement, which is one of the EU's most successful geopolitical efforts and an important investment in the long-term peace, stability and security of Europe. "The enlargement process must be based on the achievements of EU candidate countries, while also maintaining the credibility of the Union's commitments. Countries that are implementing reforms and meeting the conditions must be allowed to make significant progress, which is in the interest of both the candidate countries and the EU," said Minister Kajzer.

He also congratulated Montenegro on closing two more negotiation chapters. "Sixteen chapters have now been provisionally closed, which shows significant progress and reflects Montenegro's commitment to advancing on its path towards the EU." Minister Kajzer offered Slovenia's assistance to Montenegro in joining the European family.

He personally congratulated Montenegro's Prime Minister Milojko Spajić on his country's significant progress, a development that fills us with optimism.

Minister Kajzer's bilateral meetings on the sidelines of FAC

Minister Kajzer also held brief bilateral meetings with other ministers, including Johann Wadephul, German Minister of Foreign Affairs, to discuss the traditionally excellent relations between their two countries. Germany is one of Slovenia's key strategic, political and economic partners. The two countries also share similar views on multiple international issues and work together effectively within the EU, NATO and other international forums. Minister Kajzer called for strengthening the countries' strategic partnership, and they agreed to meet in Berlin soon.

Before the informal breakfast with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, hosted by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, Ministers Kajzer and Mirzoyan exchanged invitations for bilateral visits. Minister Mirzoyan highlighted the importance of resident embassies for the development of bilateral political and economic relations and informed Minister Kajzer of Armenia's plans to open an embassy in Ljubljana. They agreed that this would be an important step in the strengthening of political, economic and investment cooperation.

On the sidelines, Minister Kajzer also met other counterparts, including the Italian and Czech Prime Ministers, and spoke with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt, who was in Luxembourg to attend the EU-Egypt Association Council meeting.

Minister Tone Kajzer talking to German Minister of Foreign Affairs Johann Wadephul. | Author EU