Associate Professor of the Chair of International Relations Boštjan Udovič from the Faculty of Social Sciences participated in the first panel on the post-pandemic future of the European Union and Europe. Participants highlighted the importance of the Conference on the Future of Europe, which was formally launched at a gala event on the occasion of Europe Day. The Conference is needed due to a number of challenges facing the European Union in recent years, and most of its discussions will be taking place during the Slovenian Presidency. Participants agreed that the Conference is key if we are to achieve effective functioning of the Union and overcome the existing differences. Associate Prof. Udovič added that the discussion on the future of Europe should be centred on the long-term strategy of the European Union.

The second panel focused on the changed global geopolitical situation and the related challenges and opportunities for Slovenia and the EU. In the course of the Presidency, Slovenia will have the important task of encouraging debate to help prepare a comprehensive and inclusive EU strategy for the Indo-Pacific region. “During the Presidency, we will strive to add the Indo-Pacific region to the agenda of the informal meeting of EU foreign ministers (Gymnich) in September,” explained Minister Logar.

State Secretaries Dovžan and Raščan brought the Consultation to a close, thanking the gathered diplomats for their dedicated work, particularly during last year, which was overshadowed by the pandemic, and wished them every success throughout the Presidency in the countries where they serve.