NEWS

Prime Minister Janez Janša begins visit to the Federal Republic of Germany

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Janez Janša, began the first official visit of his term of office today on 8 May 2012; he is visiting the Federal Republic of Germany, the Republic of Slovenia's largest economic partner. In addition to deepening economic cooperation, the purpose of this visit is to further strengthen friendly relations and political dialogue between the two countries and the exchange of views on the reform processes and current issues in the EU and the wider international community.

 

Germany is Slovenia's most important foreign trade partner; trade in goods and services between the two countries totals almost EUR 9.5 billion and is rapidly increasing. In 2011 trade volumes amounted to EUR 8.5619 billion and have increased by 17.6%, thereby markedly exceeding pre-crisis levels. Exports to Germany reached EUR 4.3878 billion, an increase of 21.3%, while imports amounted to EUR 4.1741 billion, an increase of 13.8%. Trade volumes with Germany represented 20.1% of Slovenia's total. Otherwise, Germany is the fifth largest investor in the Slovenian economy.

 

Moreover, relations between Slovenia and Germany are traditionally excellent. They are characterised by frequent dynamic visits and meetings at various levels. Germany is also one of Slovenia's most important political and economic partners, and the two countries work closely together within the EU.

 

This year, the two countries mark the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, and it is a special honour for Slovenia that its Prime Minister's official visit tomorrow coincides with Europe Day.

 

As part of his working visit, Prime Minister Janez Janša this evening met with the CEO of Deutsche Bahn AG, Mr Rüdiger Grube, and tomorrow he will be on an official visit to meet with his host, Chancellor Angela Merkel. In the afternoon, he will be met by the President of the Bundestag, Norbert Lammert.