Today, the Prime minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Janez Janša, met Bernard Kouchner, the French Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, who is attending the 4th informal meeting of Mediterranean states of the European Union which is being held on the Slovenian coast.

(Photo: Primož Lavre/Salomon 2000)

 

The Slovenian PM and the French Minister agreed that bilateral relations between the two countries are positive, developing extremely well and maintaining a high level of dynamics, particularly in the economic field.

 

The host and his guest discussed major European issues. PM Janša stressed the positive role of France during the last European Council, when a compromise on the new EU treaty was reached. They agreed that in the light of their consecutive presidencies in 2008, Slovenia and France must maintain intensive contacts and regular political dialogue.

 

The main focus of the meeting was the situation in the Western Balkans, which will be among the priorities of both Presidencies. They emphasised the significance of a united position in seeking a solution for the status of Kosovo. They stressed the need to maintain stability in the region and agreed that compromise on the modalities of the final status must be reached this year.