“Although Slovenia still has a light diplomatic presence on the African continent, we are actively strengthening our cooperation with the African Union and its members. Cooperation is also essential in the light of the current global challenges, including human rights, peace and security, as well as climate security,” Minister Fajon underlined in her discussion with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Faki Mahamat. “I am delighted that, in addition to the embassy in Addis Ababa, we are opening an embassy to the African Union, which represents a large part of the African continent. This is Slovenia’s way of demonstrating its intention to strengthen its presence in Africa and thus to enhance the cooperation,” the minister said.

Minister Fajon also discussed Slovenia's candidacy for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat with the Chair of the African Union Commission Faki Mahamat: “I am pleased that Slovenia's work within the UN is visible and that the African Union recognises Slovenia as a country that knows how to listen and build trust between peoples, as well as bridges between countries.”

At the end of her visit, Minister Fajon met with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed. In a detailed and friendly discussion, they both expressed interest in strengthening cooperation between the two countries. Prime Minister Ahmed emphasised that Ethiopia is particularly interested in the transfer of know-how in agriculture and food security, investment in the pharmaceutical industry, and hydropower. Minister Fajon reassured Prime Minister that Slovenia is a reliable partner for Africa, a builder of bridges of trust, including in the urgently needed reform of the UN Security Council. “Europe's biggest mistake is to talk about Africa without really understanding its problems,” she added. With regard to migration, they agreed that the challenges should be tackled in collaboration and directly at their source, and that a secure future, especially for the young people, should be guaranteed at home.

The minister also presented the forthcoming Africa Day international conference and the diplomatic conference for the adoption of the Convention on International Cooperation in the Investigation and Prosecution of the Crime of Genocide, Crimes against Humanity, War Crimes, and other International Crimes. Slovenia will host both conferences, in April and May 2023 respectively.