(ANSA) - ROME, 13 NOV - Joint support for Ukraine, diplomatic efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, preservation of transatlantic unity, and stronger European resilience against Russian hybrid threats were among the issues discussed by Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Edmondo Cirielli and Slovenian Foreign Ministry State Secretary Tamara Weingerl Požar during an official visit to Ljubljana. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation between Italy and Slovenia by building on close economic ties and shared positions on key European and international issues. According to the Italian Foreign Ministry, Cirielli highlighted opportunities for cooperation in defense, energy, and infrastructure links in the Upper Adriatic region and a shared commitment to protecting and promoting the inclusion of national and linguistic minorities in both countries. The Western Balkans and EU enlargement also featured prominently in the discussions. Cirielli reaffirmed Italy's support for stability and security in the region and its gradual integration into the European Union. (ANSA).