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Minister Fajon attending OACPS Summit

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Minister Fajon took part in the 10th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), themed: "Three Continents, Three Oceans, a Common Destiny: Let's Build a Resilient and Sustainable OACPS". On the margins of the Summit, she held numerous bilateral meetings.

The priorities of this year's OACPS Summit included the discussion on key economic topics of the region, with a focus on science, technology and innovations, and the promotion of investments in micro, small and medium-sized businesses. During her visit, Minister Fajon participated with partners in the dialogue themed "peace and security challenges".

"It gives me great pleasure to represent Slovenia at this important Summit. Slovenia will continue to enhance the relations and improve the dialogue between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific states. Being a part of the former Yugoslavia and the Non-Aligned Movement, Slovenia is historically linked to these states. Much has changed since then, but Slovenia's commitment – presently as a part of the EU – to the friendship and solidarity with Africa stays firm," said Minister Fajon when addressing the leaders. The Minister went on to present Slovenia's candidature for non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council for the 2024–2025 term and outlined the importance of reducing negative impacts on the environment. "For many states, the climate has already become a security problem. If Slovenia becomes a member of the Security Council, we will work to place climate security on the Security Council agenda. It is high time to do it," stressed the Minister.

On the margins of the Summit, the Minister held bilateral meetings with Angolan Minister of Foreign Affairs Téte António. Minister Fajon told her counterpart that Slovenia values Angola's strategic relevance and stabilising influence on the region. Slovenian developmental assistance for Angola is increasing, which is another way of striving to enhance mutual cooperation.

Minister Fajon met with the foreign ministers of Papua New Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe, Jamaica and Eswatini. Their discussion focused on current challenges facing countries in the region. By the end of the Summit, the Minister will also meet with the foreign ministers of Botswana, Tanzania, DR Congo, Mauritius and Namibia.