Minister Fajon: I am proud of Slovenian diplomacy

Slovenian Diplomacy Day is celebrated on 22 May to mark the day of Slovenia’s admission to the United Nations in 1992. “Today, we can proudly say that we have built a modern, professional and internationally respected diplomatic service that responsibly represents Slovenia’s interests and contributes to peace, dialogue and international cooperation,” Minister Fajon said in her opening remarks.

“Slovenian diplomacy has demonstrated its ability to act responsibly and with integrity, in a spirit of cooperation, and we can be proud of that. During my visits to various countries, I have often heard people say that Slovenia is a small country. Yet its principled stance and its application of the same standards to everyone has given it a voice that can reach far beyond its geographical size,” she added.

The Slovenian Government introduced new awards this year to reward exceptional performance by employees within state institutions. On the occasion of Slovenian Diplomacy Day, Minister Fajon presented plaques and commendations to Ministry employees for the first time: “I would like to dedicate this year's Slovenian Diplomacy Day – the last one of this term – to the importance of cooperation, teamwork and positive interpersonal relations. Diplomacy is all about people – our knowledge, experience and approach to cooperation shape Slovenia’s image in the world. All of you represent Slovenia abroad, whether through working with foreign diplomats, assisting Slovenian citizens or opening doors for Slovenian companies.”

1. In recognition of her dedication, loyalty, team spirit and devoted work in a war zone, Ambassador Mateja Prevolšek was presented with a plaque for her many years of professional service and outstanding achievements.
2. In recognition of his successful work in challenging situations and under significant pressure, and of his unwavering support for Slovenian citizens, Ambassador Bogdan Batič was presented with a plaque for his many years of professional service and outstanding achievements.
3. In recognition of his work in particularly challenging and dangerous conditions, Ambassador Igor Jukič was likewise presented with a plaque for his many years of professional service and outstanding achievements.
4. In recognition of her successful organisation of the large-scale repatriation of Slovenian citizens from war zones, Ambassador Natalia Al-Mansour was awarded a plaque for her many years of professional service and outstanding achievements.
5. In recognition of his exceptional work in protecting Slovenian citizens abroad and facilitating their return to Slovenia from conflict zones, Viktor Mlakar, Head of the Consular Department, was presented with a plaque for his many years of professional service and outstanding achievements.
6. In recognition of Slovenia’s successful first presidency of the MED9 Group, the Project Unit Team of the Slovenian MED9 Presidency was commended for its notable professional achievements and the successful completion of challenging projects.
7. In recognition of his efficient leadership of the Representative Office of the Republic of Slovenia in Ramallah, his professionalism, dedication and loyalty in times of crisis, and his successful execution of the politically challenging project of recognising Palestine, Vojko Kuzma was awarded a posthumous commendation for his notable professional achievements and the successful completion of challenging projects.

“Together, we have achieved a great deal. I hope that Slovenian diplomacy will continue to be a confident, principled and respected representative of Slovenia in the world,” concluded Minister Fajon.

In keeping with tradition, the Ministry opened its doors to the public on this day, inviting them to visit the historic Mladika and Licej buildings. In addition to touring the premises and meeting Minister Fajon, visitors learnt more about the Ministry’s mission and operations, as well as the fundamentals of diplomatic protocol.