Lojze Peterle on the GOVSI Podcast: Independence is our shared celebration
Tanja Glogovčan Belančič spoke with the first Prime Minister of independent Slovenia. | Author Government Communication Office
Peterle stressed that Slovenia’s successful independence was not something that could be taken for granted. In his view, a decisive factor was the determination of the political leadership at the time to carry out the will expressed by the people in the independence referendum and to prepare the country for the possibility of a military attack.
He also spoke about efforts to secure Slovenia’s international recognition and the role played by then German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, whom Peterle described as one of the key figures in Slovenia’s international recognition. Following recognition, Slovenia went on to join the United Nations, the European Union, NATO and other international organisations.
The conversation also turned to present-day Slovenia. Peterle emphasised the importance of dialogue, cooperation and finding common ground that can bring society together.
“Statehood Day is our shared celebration,” he said at the end of the conversation, calling for more dialogue, mutual understanding and willingness to work together.
The full conversation is available on the YouTube channel of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia and on podcast platforms (in Slovenian).