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Prime Minister Robert Golob in a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz about current European affairs

In his conversation with the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Prime Minister Robert Golob continued the bilateral dialogue, initiated during his visit to Berlin on July 12.
Prime Minister Robert Golob in a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz

Prime Minister Robert Golob in a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz | Author Rok Rakun/KPV

The two leaders exchanged views on the energy crisis and possible EU measures to mitigate current high prices and support demand reduction for gas and electricity. They underlined the importance of a swift EU response and of solidarity among Member States. In this context, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the volatility of electricity prices that could have a serious spill over effect on the rest of the economy, also through inflation, and therefore called for an immediate introduction of appropriate market safeguards.

Prime Minister Golob and Chancellor Scholz discussed as well the potential of the European Political Community and the need for a clear EU perspective for the Western Balkans. In this regard, the Prime Minister welcomed the continuation of the Berlin Process, as EU enlargement represents the best guarantee for security, stability and progress in the region. He also highlighted the need for the European Council to discuss possible candidate status of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the coming months.

Russian aggression against Ukraine was also addressed during the conversation. In the spirit of solidarity with the Ukrainian people, Prime Minister Golob and Chancellor Scholz agreed to a joint action, so that the Ukrainian side will receive 28 Slovenian M-55S tanks. In return, Slovenia will obtain 40 German military transport vehicles, including 35 heavy 8x8 hook loaders and 5 heavy 8x8 water tankers. As such, the ring exchange will also strengthen defense cooperation between Slovenia and Germany.