In his introductory remarks, Minister Kajzer noted that the strategic document provides an opportunity to reflect on Slovenian foreign policy, as well as on the ways and means of achieving the objectives and implementing the priorities outlined in the 2015 Declaration of Foreign Policy of the Republic of Slovenia.
“Foreign policy should not and cannot be a platform for political manoeuvring and division; rather, it must unite and build bridges. A successful revision of the strategic document will also depend on how well we are able to listen to one another and find consensus on key issues,” said Minister Kajzer. He believes that the strategic document must reflect the current geopolitical environment, clearly defined national interests and Slovenia’s key priorities.
The Minister also emphasised the need for a fresh perspective on multilateralism in the current geopolitical climate, as well as a clear definition of transatlantic relations. He pointed out that the war in Ukraine, now in its fifth year, requires us to reconsider our approach to security. In this regard, he cautioned that security is not merely a matter of physical protection, but also of safeguarding critical infrastructure, supply chains and advanced technologies.
In addition to security, he paid particular attention to economic diplomacy, relations with neighbouring countries, EU enlargement, cooperation in Central Europe and international law. “Despite our differing views on certain issues, I am convinced that we share the same goal: a secure, economically successful and credible Slovenia, as we envisaged it at the time of its independence. I hope that the Strategic Council for Foreign Affairs will become a forum that supports inclusion and dialogue,” the Minister concluded.
The Minister invited Dr Ernest Petrič, Dr Dimitrij Rupel, Dr Božo Cerar, Dr Žiga Turk, Dr Jernej Letnar Černič, Dr Aleš Maver, Dr Katarina Vatovec, Dr Romana Jordan, Dr Liliana Brožič, Nuša Pavlinjek, Dr Igor Senčar and Dr Jurij Franc Tasič to join the new composition of the Strategic Council.
