Minister Kajzer and German Foreign Minister Wadephul discuss strengthening the strategic partnership

“Germany is one of Slovenia’s most important strategic, political and economic partners. I am delighted that we can continue the dialogue we began in Berlin here in Ljubljana, and take the next concrete steps towards strengthening our cooperation,” Minister Kajzer emphasised at the meeting.

Both sides welcomed the excellent relations between the two countries and their regular political dialogue at all levels. They called for the continued implementation of the fourth Slovenian-German Bilateral Action Plan 2025–2028 and for the identification of new areas of cooperation.

A significant part of the discussions was devoted to the economy. The Slovenian and German economies are already closely linked, with Slovenian companies being heavily integrated into German and European supply chains. The two ministers emphasised the potential for closer cooperation in the defence and space industries, artificial intelligence, robotics, digitalisation and advanced manufacturing. “Economic cooperation between Slovenia and Germany is built on solid foundations and is rooted in traditional sectors such as the automotive industry and mechanical engineering. However, we are also aware of the many opportunities emerging in the field of new technologies. I am extremely pleased that a strong Slovenian business delegation from the space sector is travelling to Berlin in November. I am confident that this will generate new ideas for cooperation,” said Minister Kajzer. 

A strong Europe: our common interest

The two ministers also discussed the EU’s competitiveness. Slovenia supports the further deepening of the single market, the reduction of red tape and the creation of a more predictable business environment. In this regard, Minister Kajzer emphasised that decarbonising the European industry sector and improving its competitiveness must go hand in hand: “It is in our shared interest that Europe remains industrially strong, technologically advanced and globally competitive. Slovenia has many innovative companies that could become even more closely involved in German and joint European projects.”

Turning to security matters, the ministers emphasised the importance of robust transatlantic cooperation and the NATO alliance. They also discussed ongoing support for Ukraine and the need for efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in which Ukraine has a say and is based on international law.

Regarding EU enlargement, they agreed that the European future of the Western Balkan countries, Ukraine and Moldova should be supported, emphasising that the accession process must remain credible and predictable, and be based on each country’s merits. “Enlargement is in the EU’s strategic interest. Amidst other crises and geopolitical challenges, Slovenia believes it is particularly important that we maintain our focus on the Western Balkans. Once countries have met the criteria, the EU must be able to take the next step,” Minister Kajzer emphasised.

The ministers also discussed the EU’s relations with the US and China, as well as the situation in the Middle East. Minister Kajzer highlighted the importance of preventing further escalation and resuming diplomatic efforts.

Marking the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027

In 2027, Slovenia and Germany will mark the 35th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations. The ministers agreed to hold events in both countries to celebrate this milestone, with the aim of further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between them. “The Slovenian–German partnership is important not only because of the scale of our economic cooperation, but also because we share a vision for the future of Europe. In Berlin, we discussed how to take our cooperation to an even higher level. Today in Ljubljana, we are taking the following concrete steps in that direction,” Minister Kajzer concluded.

Prime Minister Janez Janša also received the German Foreign Minister for a courtesy call. The two foreign ministers then met with representatives of promising Slovenian and German companies, before attending a reception to mark German Unity Day at the Center Rog creative hub.