NEWS

Prime Minister meets NATO Secretary General to discuss the Alliance’s future

 

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Alenka Bratušek, today received the Secretary General of NATO, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who is on an official visit to Slovenia. Their talks focused on topical issues regarding NATO and on the preparations for and expectations of the next NATO summit. Particular attention was devoted to the contribution of the Slovenian Armed Forces to NATO operations, who, said Mr Rasmussen, demonstrated exceptional commitment and knowledge and constitute an important part of the Alliance’s efforts for a stable and peaceful international environment. In this regard, the NATO Secretary General stressed: "You have proved that you are an important ally."

 

The Prime Minister informed Mr Rasmussen of her recent visit to the Slovenian patrol boat Triglav, deployed in the Mare Nostrum military and humanitarian mission, adding that, in the course of the visit, she assured herself of "the exceptional preparedness of the Slovenian Armed Forces and their ability to perform their tasks efficiently and successfully". By participating in the mission, Slovenia has demonstrated its commitment, solidarity and willingness to engage in joint efforts to preserve stability in the region."

 

Ms Bratušek and Mr Rasmussen devoted special attention to the issue of Afghanistan, in particular, considering the difficult security and political situation in the country. They also touched on the recent incident in Afghanistan in which a Slovenian soldier was injured while on patrol. The Prime Minister took the opportunity to wish the soldier a speedy recovery.

 

She also stressed the importance of NATO's open door policy, saying that "the Alliance’s enlargement is one of the key factors in preserving stability and security in Europe and beyond."