NEWS

Prime Minister Janez Janša receives representatives of Carinthian Slovenians

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Mr Janez Janša, today met with the representatives of organisations of the autochthonous Slovenian ethnic community in the Republic of Austria that are also members of the Slovenian Government Council for Slovenians in Neighbouring Countries.  

 

In view of the Prime Minister's meeting with the Governor of Carinthia, Mr Gerhard Dörfler, planned for tomorrow, they addressed key issues raised by the Slovenian community in Carinthia. Austria needs to fulfil its obligations to the Slovenian community in a comprehensive and continuous manner. The representatives also touched upon the challenges faced by Slovenians living in Carinthia, in particular with respect to bilingual schools and political representation where expectations are centred on Carinthian authorities. Possibilities for cross-border cooperation with an emphasis on European funding were also discussed. The representatives of the Slovenian community stressed that the successful development of Slovenia provides the strongest support to them.

 

The Prime Minister assured them that through its Office for Slovenians in Neighbouring Countries and Abroad as well as the activities of various ministries and government services, the Slovenian Government was engaged in a dialogue about the Slovenian community with the Austrian federal and provincial authorities. These activities include the development of a common Slovenian area, preservation of Slovenian identity, language, culture and cultural heritage, and the promotion of economic cooperation. By way of conclusion, he expressed his belief that further strengthening of close relations between the two neighbouring countries will help tackle the unresolved issues to mutual benefit.