As part of his ongoing round of political consultations with representatives of the CEI Member States, Secretary General. Hon. Franco Dal Mas, visited Ljubljana on 5 May, where he met with Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, Tanja Fajon.
During the meeting, Dal Mas expressed his appreciation for Slovenia’s continued support to the Organisation, stating:
"I believe Slovenia is a key partner for our region and for the CEI – a committed and active member of our Initiative."
The meeting addressed key topics on the CEI agenda, including support for the European integration of the Western Balkans, assistance to Ukraine, and the strengthening of regional cooperation through concrete initiatives. Among these, the Secretary General highlighted the "Falcone-Borsellino" programme to combat corruption and organised crime – developed in collaboration with the Serbian CEI Presidency and supported by Italy – as well as the project to rehabilitate the Trieste–Belgrade passenger railway line, which will also pass through Ljubljana.
Hon. Dal Mas also stressed that:
"The enlargement of the European Union to the Western Balkans is not only a matter of economic and political integration, but also of security and stability. The success of the Western Balkans will be the success of Europe."
The strategic role of Slovenia within the CEI was also highlighted. As a successful example of European integration, Slovenia stands as a model and key partner for the Western Balkan countries. Through the CEI platform, Ljubljana can continue to promote regional stability, dialogue, and development.
Minister Fajon in particular confirmed Slovenia’s commitment, stating:
"Slovenia supports the CEI because we deeply believe that regional cooperation is an essential tool for promoting peace, stability, and European integration. We are ready to support the European future of the Western Balkans. By 2030, we want to see a larger, united and stronger Europe."
The meeting was an important opportunity to relaunch political dialogue and promote concrete actions in support of regional cohesion and the European path of the Western Balkans.
In conclusion, Minister Fajon extended an invitation to Dal Mas to participate in the Bled Strategic Forum 2025 - marking its twentieth anniversary - and stressed the importance of CEI’s presence at an international platform that fosters high-level dialogue on foreign policy. In return, Hon. Dal Mas formally invited Minister Fajon to visit the CEI - Executive Secretariat in Trieste, to continue the dialogue and further strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Fruitful talks were also held with Ambassador of Italy to Slovenia, Giuseppe Cavagna.
For more info: arsova@cei.int
