Minister Fajon with NATO Foreign Ministers on the importance of unity among allies on key strategic issues

SLOVENIA, April 4 - "We have made good progress in the run-up to NATO's 75th anniversary in Washington. I called for the July Summit to include the Western Balkans in its discussions. I also supported the provision of long-term assistance to Ukraine and the creation of a NATO Special Representative for the southern neighbourhood," said Minister Fajon.

Speaking at the NATO-Ukraine Council, which was also attended by Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Minister Fajon stressed: "Slovenia has provided Ukraine with a great deal of help, and quickly. We will continue to support Ukraine and do our best to ensure a lasting and just peace. Ukrainians deserve to live in peace and stability, as do we. They deserve to decide for themselves how to ensure their security." Slovenia agrees on the need for longer-term and systemic support for Ukraine.

At a meeting with Indo-Pacific partners and the EU, including ministers from Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand, Minister Fajon emphasised dialogue and cooperation to address common challenges such as hybrid threats and cybersecurity. She added that Slovenia actively cooperates with Japan and the Republic of Korea in the framework of its membership of the UN Security Council.

Speaking at an event marking NATO’s 75th anniversary and Slovenia’s 20th year of membership, Minister Fajon said: “The 75th anniversary of the Alliance is a remarkable achievement. At its core, NATO is a political alliance of shared values, which is why it has been able to adapt quickly to changes in the world and has only grown stronger over the years. I am glad that Slovenia has been part of this history for 20 years. During this time, not only has our security improved, but NATO membership has also given us an additional platform to promote respect for human rights, to defend the rights of the most vulnerable in conflicts, especially women and girls, and to ensure peace and security in our immediate neighbourhood.

Minister Fajon particularly praised the inclusion of the Women, Peace and Security agenda among the Summit's outcomes and the organisation of a side event on the topic. "The Women, Peace and Security Agenda is an important pillar and soft power of the Alliance that needs to be continuously strengthened, discussed and built upon."

On the margins of the meeting, the Minister held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on ending the war in Gaza, the situation in the Middle East and support for Ukraine. They also discussed preparations for the NATO summit in Washington and the strengthening of the strategic dialogue between Slovenia and the US.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares congratulated Minister Fajon on the 20th anniversary of Slovenia’s NATO membership. They also discussed the situation in the Middle East.