January 5, 2018
STA reports that the Slovenian Prime Minister, Miro Cerar, has told the country's diplomates to give precedence to relations with the neighbouring countries, adding that fe is satisfied with the track record of these relations, considering the diverse forms of cooperation that are occurring in a number of fields.
"It's relations with Croatia which are the most challenging," Cerar said, noting that Slovenia had done everything in its power for consensual implementation of the arbitration award.
On his trip to Zagreb two weeks ago he made one last attempt to convince Croatia of the need to implement the decision of the arbitration tribunal.
Cerar expects the Foreign Ministry to continue with intensive diplomatic activities in support of implementing the award, in particular in EU institutions and member countries and other countries that can play an important role there. Cerar noted the priceless role of ambassadors in these efforts.
"Given Croatia's persisting in ignoring the arbitration award, we'll clearly need to apply suitable legal means," Cerar said, adding that Slovenia's path was clear.
"Slovenia will consistently insist on implementing the arbitration award, something that we also expect of Croatia. Anything else would be a departure from European and international law, and thus a departure from Slovenia's interests."
The prime minister told the diplomats that Slovenia must continue to aspire to enhance bilateral relations with the broadest possible circle of partners.
"It's important that we respond to topical developments in the international arena in a constructive, principled way, mindful of respecting our basic values."
He also touched on the challenges faced by the EU and announced that the government had already taken steps to ensure Slovenia's successful stint at the helm of the EU in the second half of 2021.
Slovenia's other priorities remain stability in the Western Balkans and the country's active role in multi-lateral organisations.
