ON JOINT EFFORTS TO FORM A DEMOCRATIC EUROPE OF THE FUTURE
On the occasion of the official visit to the Hellenic Republic

Athens (Greece), 6 June 2001




Slovenia greatly appreciated the invitation to visit, graciously extended by Mr Stephanopoulos. We see this visit chiefly as an opportunity for talks on joint efforts to form the democratic Europe of the future. A special dimension is added to talks on these issues as they take place in Athens, the cradle of democracy. Respect for human dignity and human rights must take their place at the centre of deliberations. To take this as a starting point is the objective of all political efforts.

Our talks, which were very frank and amicable, were focused chiefly on how to extend the values embedded in the traditions of the European civilisation to all of Europe and to build on that the solutions for the long-term stabilisation of Southeast Europe, chiefly the Balkans. Until Europe has reached the Balkans with these values and until they have been accepted, it is only possible to see our efforts as putting out fires as and when they break out.

Both Slovenia and Greece are seeking opportunities to realise this objective by active involvement in concrete projects within the framework of the Stability Pact. They are seeking opportunities via the enlargement of the European Union which Slovenia is interested in joining as soon as possible. Greece supports Slovenian efforts to join the EU.

Greece is an important member of the European Union and feels very much at home within that family. It has become a member of the monetary union, which is a tremendous challenge and at the same time proof that all this is also possible for Slovenia.

We also think that this basic objective can be attained through Nato enlargement. Here Slovenia also expects to be invited to join at the next summit, in Prague. Slovenia is convinced that, at its own level, it is capable of contributing a great deal to the strengthening of the collective defence capability of this alliance and it will do all it can to prove that. I believe that Slovenia is already proving this with its active involvement in peace operations. These ambitions also enjoy Greece’s selfless support.

We believe that a great deal can be contributed to this global objective at the bilateral level. Cooperation between Slovenia and Greece is good and unproblematic and has, through today’s signing of the Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation, been provided with all the necessary legal infrastructure.

We expect a visit by the Prime Minister, Mr Simitis, to Slovenia in the autumn. This will be a further opportunity for the continuation and enhancement of political dialogue between Greece and Slovenia, as well as confirmation of the good and friendly relations painstakingly established and cultivated by President Stephanopoulos. I am grateful to him for this.