On 13 February 2025, CEI Secretary General Franco Dal Mas, met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Slovakia, Juraj Blanár, in Bratislava to present the priorities of the CEI and discuss cooperation with Slovakia.
The main topics included European integration, regional cooperation, the war in Ukraine, and the strengthening of the CEI.
Dal Mas reiterated the importance of the CEI's role in promoting dialogue among Member States and supporting EU accession, emphasising that the rapid integration of the Western Balkans was crucial for Europe's future. "The success of the Western Balkans is the success of Europe," he said.
Another point of discussion was the conflict in Ukraine, which continues to threaten European stability. The Secretary General recalled the CEI’s commitment to Ukraine and highlighted the need for greater Ukrainian involvement in the CEI activities.
He also outlined some projects that the CEI intended to work on during the Serbian Presidency in 2025, particularly in the areas of legal diplomacy and connectivity.
Dal Mas thanked Minister Blanár for Slovakia’s traditional role in the CEI framework, particularly in supporting the European integration process to strengthen regional stability, and expressed hope for enhanced cooperation during his term.
Minister Blanár expressed appreciation for the CEI's commitment and confirmed that Slovakia was ready to collaborate for a more stable and prosperous future for Europe, without divisions. He announced his concrete commitment to contributing to the success of the Serbian Presidency, especially regarding the European integration of the Western Balkans.
Constructive talks also took place with Ambassador of Italy to Slovakia, Gianclemente De Felice.
This visit is part of a mission that includes meetings with all CEI member countries, demonstrating the Organisation's continued commitment to strengthening regional cooperation for European integration.
For more info: arsova@cei.int
