President's videoconference with Slovenian soldiers abroad

Ljubljana, 28.12.2011  |  press release

On Independence and Unity Day, the Slovenian President and Commander-in-Chief of the country's Defence Forces, Dr Danilo Türk, addressed members of the Slovenian Armed Forces deployed in international operations and missions, or attached to military representations abroad, via videoconference. In his address, President Türk thanked the Slovenian soldiers deployed in Afghanistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lebanon and Kosovo for their involvement, as well as for representing Slovenia in highly demanding circumstances and for their contribution to international peace and security. He wished all Slovenian soldiers abroad good health, safety and every success in the future. Moreover, he extended his best New Year's wishes both to them and their family members.

President Türk said that the participation of members of the Slovenian Armed Forces in peace-keeping and other operations and missions represents a significant part of activities of the country's defence forces. In his view, these activities enjoy a high level of trust in Slovenian military forces according to public opinion polls. The president emphasised that the doctrine of the Slovenian defence forces is based on a comprehensive concept of defence, with participation in international operations and missions being one of its essential components. He also expressed his wish that all members of the Slovenian Armed Forces who are currently or about to be involved in the future rotations would effectively complete their duties and successfully integrate in their native environment upon their return to Slovenia. The interaction between defence forces and other segments of the society must in fact be seen as paramount for the Slovenian army.

The commanders of the Slovenian Armed Forces' contingents abroad then answered the questions of the president that related to the situation in the area of their operation and their contact with the local population.