Today, the Council for Slovenes Abroad met for its founding session chaired by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Janez Janša. The Council is a special government body responsible for relations and collaboration between the Republic of Slovenia and Slovenes living abroad. At the session, representatives of Slovenian minorities took the opportunity to present the current situation and some outstanding issues, while an agreement was also reached on the Council's tasks in the future.

 

(Photo: Nebojša Tejić/Salomon 2000)

According to the PM, the meeting proved that the decision to include provisions for establishing the Council into the Relations Between the Republic of Slovenia and Slovenians Abroad Act was a good one. "We now have a body with greater operational capacity with regard to taking the opportunities which have arisen following Slovenia's accession to the EU for establishing a shared forum for the homeland and expatriates."

In line with its rules of procedure, the Council for Slovenes Abroad will meet twice a year at a plenary session to discuss strategic issues. "Three sub-committees will be established to meet operational demands, and tackle concrete tasks. The sub-committees will also collaborate with representatives of various sectors, depending on the matters under consideration."

At today's meeting the significance of the prompt recognition of future opportunities was particularly stressed. The PM emphasised the opportunities arising from the further development and strengthening of the EU, when Euro-regions are established in the EU and provinces in Slovenia.

The PM also said that the increased interest in learning Slovene which has arisen in the last few years in areas where the Slovenian minority lives is encouraging. He believes that this has happened due to Slovenia's accession to the EU, the good work of minority organisations, and cooperation with the homeland. "This is one of the prerequisites for the minority to not only maintain itself, but also become stronger," stressed the PM, adding that knowledge of Slovene is an asset also in terms of economic cooperation.

The Chairman of the Co-ordination of Slovenian Minorities (SLOMAK), Rudi Pavšič, expressed his satisfaction regarding the proceedings and conclusions of the meeting. He agreed that establishing sub-committees would lead to the satisfactory and prompt working of the Council. He stressed that the Slovenian minority cannot be a self-sufficient unit, as it is a part of a wider, plural environment, where it can strengthen its presence. Promoting the Slovenian language, strengthening the economy and developing border regions in the context of the new European dimension are of key importance.