The President of the Republic, the Prime Minister and the Apostolic Nuncio Addressed the Diplomatic Corps at the Beginning of the New Year
Ljubljana, 5 February 2021 | Press Releases, Speeches
The President of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, addressed the Diplomatic Corps today. In view of the epidemiological situation, it was not possible this year to hold the traditional annual reception for the Diplomatic Corps; the address was therefore delivered virtually.
The Diplomatic Corps was also addressed by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Janez Janša, and Jean-Marie Speich, Apostolic Nuncio in Slovenia and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Slovenia. President Pahor and Prime Minister Janša met with the Apostolic Nuncio on Wednesday, 3 February 2021.
In his address, the President of the Republic spoke about the situation in Slovenia, relations with neighbouring countries, the European Union, the Western Balkans, bilateral relations with key partners, multilateralism, international peace and climate change. Regarding the situation in Slovenia, he noted that in thirty years of independence Slovenia had succeeded in developing a strong democratic political system and an efficient economy, while consolidating its position within the international community. He recalled the tradition of close cooperation among parliamentary parties and advocated greater political unity.
The President of the Republic warned that the current decade will be decisive for achieving the Paris climate goals and that any delays will be difficult to remedy. It is necessary to join forces in favour of the sustainable development of our country, the European Union and the entire world. The President advocated effective multilateralism and stressed that the fundamental principles of the United Nations remain highly relevant.
Slovenia wishes to maintain good, orderly and, wherever possible, friendly relations with all countries. The United States is our close ally and partner. The President welcomed President Biden’s decision to return to key multilateral organisations and initiatives. It is in Slovenia’s interest to cultivate good relations also with the Russian Federation and China, both members of the UN Security Council.
Slovenia is and wishes to remain among the most integrated members of the European Union. The ability to respond jointly is key to successfully overcoming the health and economic crisis and transitioning towards sustainable development. The President called for the Conference on the Future of Europe to begin as soon as possible.
In his speech, the President recalled the importance of the European perspective of the Western Balkan countries and the intention to host in Slovenia a summit of the leaders of the Brdo-Brijuni Process on the occasion of the initiative’s 10th anniversary. He also spoke in greater detail about nurturing relations with neighbouring countries, which were further strengthened last year when, together with the Presidents of Italy and Austria, he commemorated, in a truly European spirit, two sensitive centenary anniversaries of events that had previously divided us, but which now have the power to bring us closer together.
Speech by the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, to the Diplomatic Corps at the Beginning of the New Year
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“Distinguished Dean of the Diplomatic Corps,
Excellencies,
I warmly welcome you to this New Year’s reception, which I am hosting virtually for the first time, in accordance with the epidemiological situation.
We have left behind a difficult year. The pandemic caused by the new coronavirus reminded us how closely connected we are, and we realised that we will overcome it only through cooperation and solidarity.
We were confronted with the destructive power of nature. At the same time, we were inspired by humanity and empathy. More than ever before, we know that the world is one and that we must care for it together, for the benefit of all of us and our children.
Excellencies,
as usual, I will briefly address the most important topics.
First
The Situation in Slovenia
This year Slovenia will mark the thirtieth anniversary of the declaration of its independence. Over these three decades, we have succeeded in developing a strong democratic political system. We have developed an efficient economy and consolidated our international position.
Slovenia has a government with a sufficient political majority. As in many other parts of the world, the epidemic has also affected political stability in our country, which is lower than I would wish. My assessment is that Slovenia would have dealt with the epidemic more easily, more quickly and with less dissatisfaction among the people if politics had been more united.
Slovenia has a thirty-year tradition of close cooperation among parliamentary parties during more demanding periods or in pursuit of strategic objectives. This is such a time, and I hope we will succeed.
Regular elections will take place in a little over a year. Before the elections, it will be necessary to implement the Constitutional Court’s decision on amending or supplementing the electoral system.
The fight against the epidemic and its consequences is at the forefront of all our efforts. The first task is to protect people’s lives and health, while limiting the functioning of individual sectors of society as little as possible. In some areas we have succeeded more than in others. Encouraging economic indicators show the vitality of the key pillars of the economy.
Second
Relations with Neighbouring Countries
I am proud of the excellent relations we cultivate with neighbouring countries. We have resolved practically all bilateral issues, including those with Croatia, for which I believe that sooner or later an agreement will be reached on the implementation of the Arbitration Tribunal’s ruling on the border between the two countries.
Moreover, last year we further upgraded relations with all neighbouring countries. I met several times with the new President of Croatia, Milanović, and paid an official visit to Hungary.
Above all, I am pleased that, in a truly European spirit of tolerance, understanding and friendship, we succeeded in commemorating two anniversaries: the 100th anniversary of the burning of the Narodni dom in Trieste and the 100th anniversary of the Carinthian plebiscite.
Together with President Mattarella, I attended the signing of the document returning the Narodni dom to the Slovene national community in Italy, one hundred years after it was burned down by fascists. Together, we paid tribute to the first Slovene victims of Italian fascism and to the victims of post-war killings.
Slovene-Italian relations are truly at a historically high level. They are further enriched by the recent selection of Nova Gorica, which together with the Italian city of Gorizia will be the European Capital of Culture in 2025. This is a wonderful illustration of our shared future in the European Union, where cooperation and coexistence between different languages and cultures also give rise to a common, borderless European identity.
Together with the President of the Republic of Austria, Van der Bellen, we reflected on how to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Carinthian plebiscite, which had always deeply divided the majority German-speaking population and the minority Slovene community in Austrian Carinthia. I believe that we succeeded in placing the understanding of events from one hundred years ago in a European context and in looking towards a future in which mutual respect and coexistence should prevail.
Third
The European Union
The European Union has faced and continues to face great challenges.
We may not have been fully satisfied with the initial responses to the outbreak of the pandemic, but it soon became clear that we can fight it only together and in a coordinated manner.
The agreement on the new Multiannual Financial Framework and the Recovery Fund is of extraordinary importance, and I hope it will come into effect quickly. Praise is also due for the efforts and achievements in vaccine development and the coordinated action in purchasing vaccines.
I am also very pleased with the climate agreement, which I hope will be successfully implemented this year, so that the EU can remain a leader in addressing the consequences of climate change.
I am less pleased by the United Kingdom’s departure from the Union, but I believe that the recently concluded agreement on future relations provides a good basis for close future cooperation and alliance.
This year, I expect the launch of the Conference on the Future of Europe. At first glance, a debate on Europe’s future may not seem like a priority in these difficult times. However, precisely the issues we are dealing with extensively — how to make the European Union more effective and resilient, and how to build on its fundamental values, such as democracy, the rule of law and human rights — require deep reflection on where we are in the EU and where we want to go.
For my part, I intend to continue regular consultations on this topic and to address all questions that will also arise during the European Conference.
Slovenia is among the most integrated members of the EU and must always strive to strengthen this position. I believe in the Franco-German engine of European integration, which must nevertheless be inclusive and open. I deeply value the excellent relations with both countries and with their Presidents, Steinmeier and Macron.
Slovenia has several identities, as it is also a Central European and Mediterranean country. All of this must be developed and bilateral relations with other EU Member States must be nurtured. Last year, for example, during a pause between epidemic waves, we succeeded in carrying out an excellent visit to Slovakia, focused on a green future. This year, I look forward to numerous meetings with leaders of EU Member States, as well as other countries, which we will begin to carry out as soon as circumstances allow.
Fourth
The Western Balkans
One of the most important forms of cooperation among countries in the region is the Brdo-Brijuni Process, which I lead together with the Croatian President. On the occasion of its tenth anniversary, I had planned a special meeting, and I am sincerely pleased by the strong interest of all leaders in attending. Unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic prevented this. I hope that circumstances will soon be favourable and that we will be able to hold the Brdo-Brijuni Process summit in Slovenia. This is an important platform for cooperation at the highest political level, strengthening trust among countries and helping to give the Western Balkans greater visibility.
Slovenia sincerely and firmly supports the European Union’s open-door policy and deeply regrets that the Republic of North Macedonia has not yet been given a date for the start of EU accession negotiations.
I wish for the EU partners to finally recognise that EU enlargement towards the Western Balkans is primarily a geopolitical issue and that unnecessary delays must be avoided. Slovenia will devote special attention to the EU’s policy towards the Western Balkans also during its Presidency, as it intends to host the EU-Western Balkans summit. At the same time, a significant effort is, of course, required from the countries themselves that wish to become EU members.
We have good relations with all countries in this region, which enables us to act as a connector, striving to strengthen reconciliation processes and closer cooperation among individual countries in the region.
Fifth
Bilateral Relations with Key Partners
I am sincerely pleased that we have made an important step forward in our relations with the United States of America. The United States is our close ally and partner, with whom we wish to further upgrade our relations. I look forward to cooperating with President Biden. I welcome his decision to return to the Paris Climate Agreement, the World Health Organization and other key multilateral initiatives and organisations. I express the hope that European-American cooperation and alliance will deepen.
With the Russian Federation and China, members of the Security Council, we wish to nurture political relations and strengthen economic cooperation.
We also wish to have good, orderly, sincere and, wherever possible, friendly relations with all other countries around the world.
Sixth
Multilateralism and International Peace
Last year we marked the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. On the one hand, this anniversary was overshadowed by the pandemic, which prevented summit meetings in New York. On the other hand, it was precisely the pandemic that reminded us how important multilateral cooperation is and how important a role international organisations play.
I can state with certainty that today’s world is less predictable and less secure than it was yesterday. The fundamental principles of the UN therefore remain extremely relevant. The first among them is the commitment to the peaceful settlement of all disputes.
Together, we must strive to strengthen trust, the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights. Effective multilateralism is in the interest of all countries, regardless of their military, political or economic power.
Seventh
Climate Change
I believe that we are increasingly aware of the threat that climate change poses to international peace, security and development.
However, awareness is not enough; clear, focused and decisive action is needed.
It is right that everyone contributes, according to their abilities, to addressing the challenges posed by climate change, both in our own countries and within the international framework.
My Permanent Advisory Committee on Climate Policy, established just over a year ago and composed of top experts, helps me formulate well-founded recommendations to the government and the National Assembly. The most important realisation is that, in order to achieve the Paris climate goals at both national and global levels, this decade will be decisive. Any delays will be difficult to remedy.
The fight against the Covid-19 pandemic has shown that we can succeed. We can succeed if we trust science and expertise and remain focused on what we want to achieve. We have a great opportunity to make significant progress on climate change by COP26.
It is time to join forces in favour of the sustainable development of our country, the European Union and the entire world.
In Conclusion
In my work, I am guided by a sincere desire to nurture good relations with all countries in our part of Europe and throughout the world.
Slovenia is and will continue to be an active partner in efforts for peace and cooperation, and in striving for everyone to live more safely and better.
Excellencies,
allow me, on this occasion, to sincerely thank you for your contribution to strengthening cooperation between Slovenia and the countries you represent. In the current circumstances, this is not easy, and for that I am especially grateful.
I ask you to convey my best wishes to the sovereigns of your countries, with a sincere hope for the strengthening of our mutual trust and friendship, for the benefit of the people we represent and of the wider international community.”
The text of the Prime Minister’s address and the translation of the address by the Apostolic Nuncio in Slovenia are published below.
Speech by H.E. the Prime Minister
Mr President of the Republic,
Distinguished Apostolic Nuncio, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps,
Excellencies,
I warmly welcome you to this virtual New Year’s diplomatic reception.
The year that has passed was a year of great trial. All countries of the world faced the pandemic and all the dimensions of its consequences — health, economic, social and psychological. The crisis revealed our vulnerability, as well as our helplessness as individuals. We thus rediscovered the value of belonging and the necessity of mutual responsibility. These ties build mutual trust, which enables cooperation. Resilience depends on their strength. Without cooperation and solidarity, it is not possible to effectively confront an epidemic or any other major crisis. First and foremost, we must highlight the dedication and selflessness of all health and other workers, as well as all people who follow the measures and understand the necessity of measures to contain the spread of infections. They have been an irreplaceable support to the government’s efforts, whose key concern in these circumstances is and remains the protection of life and health, as well as the pursuit of citizens’ wellbeing. For this purpose, we have already proposed the eighth package of measures to mitigate the consequences of the epidemic.
In dealing with the pandemic, seeking assistance and solving many problems, trust, cooperation and solidarity have also proved to be key values and principles at the level of relations between neighbouring countries and, more broadly, at the regional level. Experiences of interdependence and mutual assistance in facing a common crisis have strengthened neighbourly and regional relations. This is an important experience that reinforces belief in the benefits of cooperation and integration.
The pandemic was also a great test for our wider homeland, the European Union. After the initial shock, our common institutions responded with important measures, and the intensity of coordination among Member States increased. The adoption of the Multiannual Financial Framework and the Recovery Fund was possible only because of strong mutual understanding and solidarity. The common approach to financing the development and production of vaccines and their distribution among Member States according to the principle of equality is also the result of a strengthened sense of mutual solidarity.
Slovenia was active in seeking consensus among Member States for the historic decision on the Recovery Fund, and it also actively joined the reflection on further strengthening respect for the principle of the rule of law in the Union. In seeking appropriate approaches, it emphasised that monitoring the implementation of this principle must be transparent, using uniform criteria and reliable and comparable sources, on the basis of legal assessment and taking into account the specific features of Member States and structural obstacles to the rule of law, which may also be historically conditioned.
Let me highlight the importance of neighbourly relations. I am pleased that strong understanding and solidarity prevail among us. I welcome both symbolic acts by President Pahor with the Presidents of Italy and Austria. The year 2020 was marked by two historic events: the return of the Narodni dom in Trieste and the tribute paid by the Presidents of the Italian Republic and the Republic of Slovenia at monuments to the victims of fascism and communism, as well as the words of apology spoken in Slovene by the Austrian Federal President on the 100th anniversary of the Carinthian plebiscite. With all our neighbours, we wish to strengthen our good economic relations with new infrastructure links that are essential for the digital and green transition of all countries in the European Union. An intensive dialogue is also taking place with all neighbouring countries on current EU topics and regional issues. Among them, we should mention the dialogue launched in 2020 among the three coastal states on the management of the Adriatic.
Within the Union, we have devoted more attention to Central Europe, which is our natural cultural, historical and geographical environment. In particular, through strengthened cooperation within the Three Seas Initiative and the new informal group of five Central European countries, C5, we have set ambitious plans in the field of infrastructure cooperation, where this part of the European Union still lags behind. We have also strengthened cooperation within another dimension of our foreign policy identity — the Mediterranean.
In this context, I would also like to emphasise bilateral relations with the United States. In 2020, Slovenia moved from words to action. We strengthened relations, including exchanges of visits at the level of foreign ministers, and cooperation through agreements in the fields of cyber and energy security. With the launch of the strategic dialogue with the United States, we laid solid foundations for the continuation of bilateral cooperation.
The government also strove to balance the economic and other vital interests of the state with the national security system and the strengthening of Slovenia’s security and political position. In doing so, it also pursued the goals and interests of allies and partners and made use of good relations with neighbouring countries in deterring threats and ensuring and strengthening peace. Thus, the field of protection against natural and other disasters, as well as migration issues, was by no means neglected. In the field of defence and the military, the National Assembly adopted the Act on the Provision of Funds for Investments in the Slovenian Armed Forces for the years 2021 to 2026.
As we look, at the beginning of the year, towards the tasks and challenges ahead, all these experiences fill us with hope and confidence that together, with united strength, we will overcome this crisis. We will build our policy in 2021 on the experiences of cooperation, strengthening mutual trust and solidarity. The EU and NATO are our anchors of the global political West. We wish to contribute to the further strengthening and protection of its fundamental values and interests. This will be even more present in our awareness this year, when we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the declaration of independence. The efforts of the Slovene nation for freedom and independence were successfully realised within the framework outlined and consolidated by European integration. With the fall of European communist totalitarian regimes, the realisation of a whole and free Europe, at peace with itself, became possible. This goal has not yet been fully achieved and remains the task of our political generation.
Our central task will be the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2021. In this regard, I would like to highlight two key priorities: preparedness and resilience to crises. The pandemic has reminded us that at EU level we must together develop ways to respond quickly and effectively to crises and to manage them. The importance of the resilience of social systems, which are even more exposed due to accelerated digitalisation, has also become clear. Therefore, improving resilience and preparedness for pandemics, as well as improving cyber resilience, will be priority themes of our Presidency of the Council of the EU. High on our agenda will also be the Western Balkan countries and the realisation of their European perspective.
The key word for the future will be the stabilisation of the European Union, above all its consolidation after Brexit and Covid. In these circumstances, consolidation and stabilisation of the existing Lisbon framework are needed, along with a focus on key themes and challenges and on improving the effectiveness of the Union’s work in concrete areas. The internal market and the European Economic and Monetary Union must be fully operational and stable in the long term. In this way, they will be able to contribute to the stability of the entire EU. In accordance with the provisions of the treaties, efforts must be made to expand the euro area and the Schengen area. In a very important sense, the Union will not be consolidated and stable until its external borders are also the borders of the Schengen area.
The EU can be strong and united if, in our common cooperation, we respect subsidiarity and the freedom of European nations to implement European principles, values and policies in their own way, in accordance with their history, culture and social specificities, while respecting the rule of law. In the EU, we know that we can face any crisis if we remain free, united and solidary.
Distinguished guests,
At this point, allow me to sincerely thank you for your cooperation and efforts in strengthening friendly relations between the countries you represent and Slovenia, and for the assistance extended to all those whom you helped in any way during the pandemic crisis. Thank you sincerely for all your solidarity. We have before us a year full of challenges, but the experiences of solidarity and cooperation fill us with firm hope that we will be able to meet them. I wish all of you, your countries and the peoples you represent abundant health, happiness and prosperity, and may the bonds of friendship that connect us be further strengthened this year.
Speech by His Excellency Archbishop Jean-Marie SPEICH, Apostolic Nuncio in Slovenia and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Slovenia, on the occasion of his New Year greetings to His Excellency Borut PAHOR, President of the Republic of Slovenia, for the New Year 2021
Mr President of the Republic of Slovenia,
Your Excellency Prime Minister,
Your Excellency Minister of Foreign Affairs,
distinguished members of the Government,
dear colleagues, members of the Diplomatic Corps,
ladies and gentlemen,
As Dean of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Republic of Slovenia, it is a great honour for me, at the beginning of this year 2021, to extend my best wishes to you, Mr President, to the Slovenian Government and, through it, to all citizens of Slovenia. The year 2020 was very important and unusual, marked by the rapid and relentless spread of Covid-19, which placed Slovenia and all humanity before a severe test. The pandemic surprised us, disrupted our plans and plunged us into an unprecedented global, epochal crisis. In the midst of technological and managerial euphoria, we realised that all states, and we ourselves, were socially and technically unprepared for the spread of the infection: its impact was difficult to recognise and acknowledge. We are now striving to limit its spread, find solutions and develop a vaccine. The Slovenian Government did its best. At the beginning of the crisis, it was of great assistance in repatriating foreign citizens from Slovenia to their home countries. Some of my colleagues thanked the Slovenian authorities, health workers and all Slovenian citizens at the end of March for taking care of citizens of their countries living in Slovenia, adding that they had taken care of Slovenian citizens in their own countries as best as they could. Covid-19 has given us the opportunity to give reciprocity a new, human face.
We are facing a health crisis, but at the same time we must not forget the existing food crisis. According to the latest report on the state of food security and nutrition in the world, published last July by United Nations agencies working in the field of food, nearly 690 million people were undernourished, and the number continues to rise. There are several causes, partly linked to the unequal distribution of the Earth’s resources. These include a lack of investment in agriculture, an increase in food loss and waste, and the spread of conflicts in different parts of our planet. All this is further aggravated by climate change, which particularly affects small rural producers not only in distant countries, but also in each of our own countries, as well as by the threat to biodiversity, which exposes humanity to natural disasters. We can therefore speak of a global environmental crisis.
In addition, there are the economic and social crises following the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic continues to have significant economic consequences, with considerable effects on the labour market. It has revealed and amplified many vulnerabilities and injustices. When it comes to health, the virus makes no distinctions. Many families in Slovenia and in other countries are threatened by economic instability and social and psychological difficulties. In our society, the family is the place where we care for one another; it gives us hope and provides security. In 2021, many families will need our help, and we must be ready to assist them. In the world of work, those most severely and harshly affected are those who are most disadvantaged and most vulnerable. Governments and political parties are obliged to find concrete solutions and abandon boastful competition that belongs to another time.
During the current pandemic, national borders were closed, and we sought solutions at national and global levels in response to the question of how to move forward. In these difficult circumstances, the Diplomatic Corps noted with satisfaction that Slovenian diplomacy had successfully addressed these challenges and was gaining new and very interesting momentum. It seems that Slovenian diplomacy is visible everywhere. The Diplomatic Corps welcomes efforts to promote contacts and dialogue with neighbouring countries and to deepen relations with non-European countries, such as those in Latin America and Africa, through participation in numerous multilateral meetings. The Diplomatic Corps has taken note of Slovenia’s wish to be regarded as a responsible ally and constructive partner. The Diplomatic Corps wishes Slovenia to continue deepening bilateral and multilateral relations that enrich legitimate national interests and contribute to the development of an international community that promotes peace, tranquillity and freedom. The Diplomatic Corps is pleased to note that Slovenia celebrates Slovenian Diplomacy Day on the day it commemorates its accession to the United Nations. Slovenia thus entered the world of diplomacy and, in a relatively short time, became a member of the EU and NATO, and a few years later of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
This year will be important for Slovenia: the celebration and commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the plebiscite, which was a crucial milestone on the path to the country’s independence. The Diplomatic Corps will be pleased to be part of this important event in the life of your country. Celebrations will of course also take place at the level of the European Union and in the countries that emerged after the dissolution of Yugoslavia, and which share many common endeavours with Slovenia. Promoting reconciliation and connectedness is good. Slovenia has become a model of democracy and prosperity. In the second half of this year, your country will preside over the Council of the EU for the second time. The first time, in 2008, was successful. The Diplomatic Corps looks forward with great interest to Slovenia’s proposals and priorities. The pandemic has brought an urgent need for unity among nations, political parties and citizens. We have all had to learn to put political differences aside and come together to protect human lives. Let us hope that this spirit will survive and that together we will face the other challenges of the third decade of this century.
Allow me, Mr President, to conclude by congratulating Slovenia on its double victory in cycling, when we heard the Slovenian anthem on the Champs-Élysées for the first time, and on its great achievements in kayaking and skiing, and by emphasising that Slovenes are a sporting nation. We sincerely hope that Slovenian sportswomen and sportsmen will ensure that the country’s reputation remains high, and that they will not only compete successfully but also serve as good ambassadors of the values embodied by the forthcoming postponed Olympic Games. To complete the list, another field should also be mentioned: gastronomy. After the publication of the first Gault & Millau guide dedicated to Slovenia in 2019, the Michelin Guide recognised Slovenian gastronomy in 2020 by awarding two stars to one restaurant and one star to five restaurants. Since gastronomy has experienced one of the most difficult years in its history, these success stories are a ray of hope for recovery in 2021.
Mr President, on behalf of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Republic of Slovenia, I once again extend to you my best wishes for the New Year and for the wellbeing of us all. May this year 2021 bring the citizens of Slovenia reconciliation and peace, prosperity and happiness, and may it strengthen the bonds of friendship that connect our diverse countries.
Thank you.
