State Secretary Denis Zobarič attends Salzburg Forum meeting in Poland

The first part of the meeting was dedicated to cross-border cooperation in the field of civil protection. State Secretary Zobarič pointed out that natural disasters, geopolitical tensions and hybrid threats require closer cooperation between countries, joint preparedness and mutual assistance in the event of disasters. Slovenia has concluded twelve bilateral agreements in this field, which provide an important basis for cross-border cooperation.

The participants discussed the funding of civil protection and the strengthening of countries’ resilience. For Slovenia, it is of key importance to combine national and European funding resources to develop the equipment, infrastructure and capacity needed to respond effectively to natural and other disasters.

The discussion also focused on finding long-term solutions as regards the phasing out of temporary protection for displaced persons from Ukraine. State Secretary Zobarič called for stable and predictable measures, as well as opportunities for transition to other legal statuses. “It is crucial that displaced persons receive timely and clear information about the options for transitioning to other statuses, about the situation in Ukraine and about the support available for return,” he said. He also paid particular attention to the needs of vulnerable groups.

During the panel discussion on ‘Current Migration Challenges’, participants discussed the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum, the effective management of the European Union’s external borders, and the preservation of the Schengen area without internal border controls. In his address, the State Secretary emphasised the importance of effective border procedures, swift returns, consistent data recording in the Eurodac system and improved information exchange between member states.

“Only a comprehensive approach that combines effective border management, respect for fundamental rights, strong institutions and the fight against organised crime can guarantee security whilst upholding European values and principles,” emphasised the State Secretary. He also advocated strengthening the operational role of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and combating migrant smuggling and human trafficking.

The Salzburg Forum remains an important framework for regional cooperation, enabling member states to coordinate their positions, exchange experiences and enhance their joint response to security challenges in the wider region.