Slovenia and Italy discuss preparations for a strategic partnership action plan

Both sides emphasised the importance of regular and open dialogue, as well as the partnership between Slovenia and Italy. Particular attention was devoted to an agreement to elevate cooperation between the two countries to a strategic partnership. “Upgrading bilateral cooperation to a strategic partnership, as agreed by the Slovenian and Italian Prime Ministers, Janez Janša and Giorgia Meloni, in October, will be key to further strengthening the already close and thriving relations between the two neighbours, allies and friends,” emphasised State Secretary Weingerl Požar. Slovenia advocates that the strategic partnership should cover connectivity, defence, cybersecurity, migration, science, education, culture, the economy, innovation, competitiveness, economic security, infrastructure, transport, the environment, agriculture, forestry, food and fisheries.

State Secretary Weingerl Požar particularly emphasised the importance of regular meetings of the Coordination Committee, underscoring their role as the central mechanism for coordinating and strengthening bilateral cooperation in various fields. Slovenia is aiming to make the next meeting ambitious in terms of content, which will provide an opportunity to review the implementation of joint commitments and agree on the next concrete steps. “The Coordination Committee is an important instrument of Slovenia’s cooperation with Italy, enabling us to turn political dialogue into concrete projects and results. We hope that the next meeting will breathe new life into cooperation in areas of mutual interest to both countries and their citizens,” said State Secretary Weingerl Požar.

The Coordination Committee was established following the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Slovenia and the Government of the Italian Republic in Brussels on 14 May 2007. The most recent meeting took place on 29 October 2024 at Brdo pri Kranju. The Committee has an important role in coordinating the work of the relevant ministries in both countries and monitoring the implementation of joint priorities.

Both sides agreed on the importance of open dialogue regarding the situation of their respective minorities. The Slovenian side expressed the hope that efforts would continue to find systemic solutions to the remaining outstanding issues raised by the Slovenian minority in Italy. State Secretary Weingerl Požar welcomed the increase in funding allocated by Italy for the protection of the Slovenian minority in 2026 and 2027, stating: “This is a positive step that reflects a genuine intention to further strengthen the already excellent bilateral cooperation between the two neighbouring countries, which enjoy close political and economic ties.”

The consultations also offered an opportunity to exchange views on key foreign policy issues, with a particular focus on Russian aggression against Ukraine and the situation in the Western Balkans. The two countries share the same views on the war in Ukraine. Ukraine continues to need strong support from Europe, and pressure on Russia must be maintained. It is also crucial that the EU acts as one and speaks with one voice. With regard to the Western Balkans, support was expressed for Montenegro and Albania’s efforts on their path towards the EU, as well as for the swift conclusion of all pre-accession procedures. North Macedonia must not be overlooked in this context. Both sides called for a peaceful and democratic transition in Serbia following the elections, emphasising that a stable, democratic and EU-oriented Serbia is vital for regional stability and prosperity. It is also crucial that candidate countries continue to implement reforms.