NEWS

Prime Minister Pahor attends ceremony celebrating the departure of the 20th contingent of the Slovenian Armed Forces to Kosovo

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, today attended a ceremony to celebrate the departure of the 20th contingent of the Slovenian Armed Forces to the KFOR mission in Kosovo, held at the Ivan Cankar Military Post in Vrnika, where he was received with military honours by the Minister of Defence, Ljubica Jelušič.

 

In his address, Prime Minister Pahor noted that he was pleased to be able to wish good luck to the  contingent, which is departing on a responsible mission of the international Kosovo Force (KFOR): "I am aware that international operations and missions constitute a challenge to every individual, but at the same time they also represent a great responsibility for the Slovenian Armed Forces and the Slovenian state."

 

(Foto: Tamino Petelinšek/STA)

 

In this regard, Mr Pahor highlighted the importance of the Government's political support of members of the Slovenian Armed Forces, who as representatives of Slovenia operate in the international environment.  "Successful participation in operations requires a comprehensive approach that involves the cooperation of the Slovenian Armed Forces, civil experts from various government services and ministries, members of the Slovenian Police and members of non-governmental organisations. The Government also participates in operations with various donations and international development aid."

 

At the close of his address, Mr Pahor extended special thanks to the families of members of the Slovenian Armed Forces. "I am aware of the great sacrifice and support your families give to the country by helping you keep your spirits up during the mission."