At the summit of the Crimean Platform President Pahor reaffirmed the strongest support of the Republic of Slovenia for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine
Ljubljana, 23. 8. 2022 | press release, speech
The President of the Republic of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, at the invitation of the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, attended the second summit of the Crimean Platform, which this time took place virtually.
Photo: Matjaž Klemenc/UPRS
Address of the President of the Republic (Check against delivery!):
Dear Mr President
Excellencies,
A year ago, I participated at the launch of the Crimea Platform.
Today, I want to reaffirm the strongest support of the Republic of Slovenia for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
After occupying Crimea in 2014, Russia has, six month ago, invaded Ukraine. We strongly condemn this unprovoked, unjustifiable attack and its war of aggression against Ukraine.
We call on Russia to immediately and unconditionally withdraw its forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. Russian war against Ukraine is a serious breach of international law.
I wish to use this opportunity to commend the bravery and resolve of the Ukrainian people and of the country's leadership.
You are fighting for universal values – freedom, independence, and democracy.
We are appalled by the repeated attacks of the Russian armed forces on the civilian population. All war crimes must be duly investigated and perpetrators brought to justice.
The war in Ukraine has severe economic and humanitarian consequences on wider community and I warmly welcome all the efforts to alleviate food crisis.
We need to be aware that the war in Ukraine has spill-over effect on the security in Europe, in particular in Western Balkans. In the EU, we have a wonderful tool on disposal to strengthen our security – this is the enlargement process.
I welcome the recent decision of the European Council to grant candidate status to Ukraine and Moldova. I wish the same for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I see the International Crimea Platform as an important contribution towards the full restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
Our common goal is to restore peace and stability in Ukraine, and let me reassure you that Slovenia will continue providing political and economic support, as well as humanitarian aid and other assistance to Ukraine. We are with you.