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Minister Fajon at the Arab League foreign ministers meeting on the importance of multilateral cooperation

Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon took part in the Arab League foreign ministers meeting in Cairo. In her opening address, she underlined the importance of cooperation and dialogue when facing key global challenges and went on to present to the ministers her vision for Slovenia's candidature for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council for the 2024–2025 term. She also held a number of bilateral meetings on the margins of the event.

"Slovenia's vision for the Security Council’s work is focused on strengthening confidence and mutual respect, as well as on measures aimed at securing the future. We must respect international law and the UN Charter, and promote inclusive discussions and decision-making based on reliable information. In doing so, we must commit to tackling the root causes eroding international peace and security, such as inequality, the indispensable role of women and young people in conflict situations, climate change, and water, food and energy security," explained Minister Fajon in her address. She also expressed her wish to work more closely with the Arab League and all its members. "Slovenia is a Mediterranean country sharing with the countries in the region not only challenges but also opportunities for cooperation. That is why I would like to see cooperation at the multilateral level strengthened, in addition to bilateral cooperation," the Minister added.

The Minister also outlined Slovenia's political, economic and developmental engagement in the Mediterranean and the Middle East. She highlighted Slovenia's contribution to peace and security through its participation in peacekeeping operations in the region and through initiatives on human rights, humanitarian aid and sustainable development, with a view to building peaceful, sustainable and resilient societies. She went on to outline the activities of ITF Enhancing Human Security and Slovenia's participation in the Union for the Mediterranean, which includes the Piran-based Euro-Mediterranean University (EMUNI).

The Minister expressed her satisfaction with the Arab League's commitment to stability in the region and her support for a peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine based on a two-state solution. She also outlined Slovenia's main priorities in the multilateral system, with a focus on tackling climate change, ensuring food and energy security and safe water supply.

On the margins of the meeting, Minister Fajon met with the Secretary General of the Arab League and the foreign ministers of Algeria, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, Mauritania, Somalia, and Tunisia. She reviewed bilateral relations and cooperation with her counterparts, exchanged views on developments in the region and listened to their expectations regarding the current situation around the world.

The League of Arab States was founded in 1945 and is based in Cairo. It is composed of 22 member states (Syria currently under suspension) from North Africa, the Horn of Africa, the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula.