Minister Fajon visited Slovakia for the first time and shared Slovenia's experiences on the UN Security Council

SLOVENIA, May 27 - The discussions with Minister Blanár centred on political and economic relations between the two countries. Minister Fajon emphasised that Slovakia is Slovenia's 18th largest trading partner in terms of goods trade: “I believe that we still have considerable room for increasing our trade. I see opportunities in the automotive industry, in the framework of development cooperation in the form of joint projects linking science and the economy. We also hope that Slovakia will further enhance its already excellent cooperation with the Port of Koper.” The two ministers agreed that there are opportunities for cooperation in information technology, innovation, smart technologies, artificial intelligence development, the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, the food and beverage industry, and energy. Minister Fajon said that Slovenia would like to welcome more Slovak tourists, who could enjoy high-quality holidays in unspoilt nature.

The talks also touched on the need to expand the European Union, particularly given the current geopolitical situation. They agreed on the importance of making the enlargement process more effective, credible and dynamic. Minister Fajon said: “Enlargement is a geopolitical necessity and an opportunity for us all. I would like to see this process accelerated somewhat and Slovenia sees potential in introducing qualified majority voting at certain stages of the enlargement process. We must not leave the Western Balkan countries behind.” The ministers also discussed the importance of enlargement to Ukraine and Moldova. Minister Fajon welcomed the progress made in adopting reforms in their rapprochement process with the European Union.

They also touched on the issues of illegal migration and human trafficking, as well as Schengen border control. They then moved on to discuss the growing number of conflicts and armed clashes around the world. Minister Fajon called for a ceasefire in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as for the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

At the invitation of her Slovak counterpart, Minister Fajon attended a meeting of Slovak ambassadors, where she shared Slovenia's experiences of campaigning for membership of the UN Security Council. Slovakia is currently seeking a non-permanent seat on the Council for the period 2028–2029. Minister Fajon underlined the importance of personal contacts between the highest representatives of the state and their partners around the world, participation in international events – particularly within the UN framework – and the effective allocation of human and financial resources within the national diplomatic service. UN Security Council membership raises a country's profile in the international community, obliges it to address threats to international peace and security, and strengthens the interest of many countries in political, economic and scientific cooperation with a Security Council member. Minister Fajon presented Slovenia's current activities within the UNSC, focusing on the situations in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as on respect for international law and human rights, and the protection of water infrastructure in armed conflicts. Experience gained during the campaign and Slovenia's UNSC membership has also led to the formulation of a new Slovenian foreign policy strategy, adopted in December 2024.  

In Bratislava, Minister Fajon was received by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini. They discussed deepening bilateral cooperation, the Western Balkans and EU enlargement in light of his upcoming visit to Slovenia. They also touched upon current European and global challenges.