Skip to content .

Service navigation

Main Navigation

Area-Navigation

Further information

Link to slovenia.si opens in a new window

Services

Speeches, Interviews

June

May

April

  • 28.04.2008
    Address of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Slovenia, Zofija Mazej Kukovič, at the Networking Meeting of the Competent Authorities for Pricing and Reimbursement of Medicinal Products. It is my great pleasure to have the opportunity to address your meeting. It is also my delight to greet you in Slovenia in the spring while we are about to enter the last third of our Presidency term. As the first among the new Member States which joined the European Union on 1st May, 2004, to hold the Presidency, we take it as a great honor for Slovenia and we have been trying to fulfill it with all the necessary responsibility. Today, I would like to express my support for your efforts to increase your mutual cooperation.
  • 28.04.2008
    Opening address by Minister Marjeta Cotman at the Conference on Intergenerational Solidarity for Cohesive and Sustainable Societies . Welcome to Slovenia! I am delighted that you have accepted the invitation to participate in this Slovenian Presidency Conference, the basic purpose of which is to continue and intensify the European debate on demographic challenges. I would like to take this opportunity to cordially thank the European Commission for its help and financial support in preparing this event as well as the non-governmental organisations for their contributions to its content.
  • 24.04.2008
    Minister of Labour, Family and Social Affairs Marjeta Cotman: Introductory Address at the Conference ‘Jobs for Youth – Prosperity for All’. The Slovenian Presidency takes as its fundamental premise the principle that Europe needs to invest in people in order to provide for the future. Attention is, therefore, focused on promoting the employment of young people. The successful integration of young people into the labour market is one of the most important challenges we face in the European Union. Young people, considered to be the driving force of every society, find themselves in an unenviable situation when seeking good work opportunities. Young people are undoubtedly the most flexible group within the active population; nevertheless, measures to ensure security and stability are required.
  • 23.04.2008
    Statement by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia and President of the European Council, Janez Janša, at the Press Conference after the 17th EU-Japan Summit. Prime Minister Janez Janša: Thank you, Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, for the floor. First of all I would like to thank you for hosting this Summit and for the warm and generous hospitality that Japan has extended to the EU delegation. Through regular dialogue the EU and Japan have developed a strong partnership. Since 1991, our yearly summits have already become a tradition. The evolution of our relationship is thus in line with the Japanese proverb which says “Continuance is power” . Indeed, the continuity of our cooperation makes our voice stronger and gives us confidence in addressing the most important challenges of the modern world.
  • 23.04.2008
    Speech of the President of Slovenia, Mr. Danilo Türk, to the European Parliament. It is a great honour for me to have been invited to address this august body today. Only last month we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the first meeting of the then European Parliamentary Assembly. This Anniversary is an excellent opportunity for reflection about the present and the future of the European Union. Today I have a special privilege to share my thoughts with you, the elected representatives of the people of Europe.
  • 23.04.2008
    Statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council on Preparations for the EU–Latin America/ Caribbean Summit. The EU Council welcomes the European Parliament’s great interest in strengthening the strategic partnership between the EU and Latin America and the Caribbean. We also appreciate Parliament’s active role in promoting specific commitments towards this region likely to have beneficial effects for citizens on both sides.
  • 23.04.2008
    Statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on Behalf of the Eu Council on the Situation in the Field of Illegal Immigration. By way of introduction, allow me to underline that the challenges of migration call for a comprehensive approach. We need to develop a comprehensive migration policy and legislation, and at the same time continue efforts in combating illegal migration. Measures are needed at the EU level, between Member States, and in cooperation with third countries.
  • 23.04.2008
    Statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on Behalf of the eu Council Regarding the situation in Burma/Myanmar. The European Union has followed developments in Burma/Myanmar closely. We are very active in supporting the efforts of the United Nations, which are aimed at advancing the transition to democracy, reconciliation and development of the country. In these endeavours, we also carry out consultations with Asian partners. This month, EU Special Envoy Fassino informed the European Parliament about the situation in Burma. He updated MEPs on the EU's coordination with Burma's neighbours and other ASEAN countries.
  • 22.04.2008
    Statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council on Rising Food Prices in the EU and the Developing Countries. Evropska unija z zaskrbljenostjo spremlja zvišanje cen kmetijskih pridelkov, s katerim se soočamo tako v EU kot drugod po svetu. Zavedamo se resnosti in razsežnosti morebitnih posledic, predvsem za najrevnejše države sveta.
  • 22.04.2008
    Presentation by Current President of the EU Transport Council, Slovenian Minister of Transport, Radovan Žerjav: GALILEO (GNSS) - Development of a European civil Global Navigation Satellite System. I am very glad to have today the opportunity to attend your plenary session where we will discuss Galileo Implementation Regulation. We all are aware of the geo-strategic and economic importance of the programmes Galileo and EGNOS for the European Union. But before coming to the text that is on the table today, let me shortly recall the decisive developments that the programmes faced during the last year.
  • 11.04.2008
    The Future of the European Security and Defence Policy - Speech by the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia Karl Erjavec at Alumni Seminar (Hotel Mons, 11 April 2008). It is a great honour and a pleasure for me to address you at the beginning of today’s meeting which marks our joint efforts for progress in the field of European security and defence policy. The ‘Alumni’ meeting is the first of its kind and it is very important since you, the participants, are the ones who are called upon and most challenged to consider the concept of change in the field of European Security And Defence Policy (ESDP). This event provides a valuable opportunity to speak about the future of the ESDP. We are entering a period in which our common future is of prime importance. Europe is increasingly involved in shaping world events. This brings new challenges in the field of ESDP and, undoubtedly, the Lisbon Treaty will have a critical role in the search for answers to unresolved issues. I am convinced that your considerations and conclusions will make a significant contribution to the efforts we need to invest in the future development of the European Community and in our further joint cooperation.
  • 11.04.2008
    Miha Pogacnik: The Synergy of Deep Ecology with Deep Culture. The topic of discussion of the Informal Meeting of Environment Ministers was the synergy of climate change, biodiversity and sustainable use of forests. My contribution was highlighting yet another synergy which needs to be added to the ecological sustainability strategy of EU policy if we want to be successful: the synergy of deep ecology with deep culture.
  • 09.04.2008
    Debate on the Progress Reports of Croatia and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: Statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council. First, I would like to congratulate the Honourable Members of Parliament, Mr Hannes Swoboda and Mr. Erik Meijer, for their progress reports on Croatia and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. We are also pleased that the European Parliament has included a debate on the progress of both countries in its plenary session agenda. The Slovenian Presidency attaches great importance to the European integration of the Western Balkan countries. In this regard let me recall that EU Foreign Ministers who gathered for their informal Gymnich meeting in late March sent a positive message to the Western Balkan region on its European perspective. We estimate that such a message is most welcome in this very challenging period for Croatia.
  • 09.04.2008
    Statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council on the Situation in Lebanon. Efforts to secure peace, stability, economic prosperity and respect for human rights remain the priorities at the heart of the diplomatic action of the European Union and its Member States in relation to the situation in Lebanon. We are striving to maintain Lebanon's sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, unity and stability. The EU supports Lebanon's democratic institutions and the legitimate government led by the Prime Minister Fouad Siniora. However, we are concerned about the long paralysis of Lebanese institutions since at least November 2006 and aggravated since November 2007 by the vacant presidential position. As you know, the presidential elections, last scheduled for 25 March 2008, have already been postponed 17 times and are now scheduled for 22 April 2008.
  • 07.04.2008
    Speech by the Minister of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia : European Security and Defence Policy. Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great honour and a pleasure to welcome you to this event which marks our joint efforts for progress in the field of European security and defence policy. This event is important, as I see it, mainly in the context of thinking about the future of the ESDP. We are entering a period in which our common future is of prime importance. Europe is increasingly assuming the role of a global player involved in shaping world events.
  • 03.04.2008
    Speech of the Minister of Health Zofija Mazej Kukovič at the 3rd European conference on alcohol policies – Building Capacity for Action. It is my utmost pleasure to have this opportunity to address you at the European conference on alcohol policy - "Building Capacity for Action". Allow me to thank the Spanish Government, in particular the Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs of Spain, who kindly enabled us to place such an important event of the Slovenian Presidency into the magnificent environment of the city of Barcelona. My sincere thanks also goes to the regional Government of Catalonia and the Mayor of Barcelona for their warm welcome and hospitality and all the efforts invested into the preparation of the Conference. The Slovenians hold fond memories of Barcelona as on the 1992 Olympic Games, - the first Olympics where Slovenia participated after its independency - our rowing team - the later Olympic champions - began their series of successes by winning two bronze medals.
  • 01.04.2008
    Address by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia Dimitrij Rupel to the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) of the European Parliament - Briefing on the Conclusions of the Gymnich Meeting. Allow me to present some of the salient points of the debate at the Informal Meeting of EU Foreign Ministers – Gymnich, held in Brdo and Bled, Slovenia, on 28 and 29 March. The meeting focused on the following issues: the role of Syria in the Middle East, relations between the EU and the Russian Federation, the European perspective for the Western Balkans, intercultural dialogue, and Tibet. The Foreign Ministers confirmed four written contributions: the letter by Foreign Ministers Kouchner and Miliband on EU-Russian relations, the Presidency declaration on the Western Balkans and points for declarations on Tibet and on the Geert Wilders film. The first topic discussed at the Gymnich meeting was the situation in the Middle East and the role of Syria.This is an opportune moment to discuss the Middle East Peace Process and Syria, there being a widespread impression that the Annapolis process is progressing slowly or has come to a standstill, that there is no change in the situation in the field, that Israel is continuing its unilateral action, and that the situation in Gaza is critical.

March

February

  • 28.02.2008
    The 11th Forum of National Ethics Councils (NEC) Brdo, 28–29 February 2008 - Opening Address by the Slovenian Minister of Health. In the name of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Slovenia, it gives me great pleasure to welcome respected guests, representatives of the European Commission and participants to the 11th Forum of National Ethics Councils, as well as to the Republic of Slovenia. The development of science, the medical profession and society as a whole presents us with ever new ethical issues which require comprehensive ethical and scientific consideration, interdisciplinary debate, explanation of standpoints and open dialogue, because only such action can lead to the best possible results for the patient, doctor and society at a given moment.
  • 27.02.2008
    Address on behalf of the EU at the Regional Table of the Stability Pact for South East Europe. Let me thank our host warmly. Sofia is a great host and the city has been the venue of many important meetings of the Stability Pact. This time we come to Sofia for a final meeting of the Regional Table in order to muster all our support for a new venture, nothing less than a new chapter in the history of the region; the transformation of the Stability Pact into the new regionally-owned cooperation framework, the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC). We are thereby adding the final touch to the new architecture for regional cooperation in South-East Europe.
  • 21.02.2008
    Speech of the Minister Mate on Security as a Common Good and on Visa Liberalisation with Montenegro. Despite the fact that, normally, each of us exercises their functions on their own side of the border, we are becoming increasingly aware that we are all on the same side of the border when it comes to combating all forms of crime, terrorism and other security risks. This increased awareness is reflected in specific activities and reinforced police and border police cooperation regardless of the origin of police forces. After the sad and tragic events that occurred in the Western Balkans, the countries of this region are intensively building reciprocal ties on a sound foundation and in mutual respect. Closer cooperation in economic, cultural, information and other fields is followed by increased cooperation in combating all forms of crime and terrorism.
  • 20.02.2008
    Discussion on a motion for a resolution of the European Parliament on the seventh session of the UN Human Rights Council - statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council. I am delighted to have this opportunity to speak about the Human Rights Council. By placing this item on the plenary session agenda, the European Parliament is acknowledging the importance that the European Union attaches to the UN Human Rights Council as a global body for the protection and promotion of human rights. The European Union is a strong advocate of an efficient Human Rights Council. We have made great efforts to ensure that the form it took in the end would provide a sound basis for fast and effective response to serious human rights violations. With the adoption last December of the Human Rights Council’s institution-building package at the UN General Assembly, it is now time for the Council to deliver.
  • 20.02.2008
    Discussion on 23rd Annual Report from the Commission on "Monitoring the Application of Community Law" – statement by State Secretary for European Affairs Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council. The Council of the EU welcomes the report by Ms Frassoni, Member of the European Parliament, on 23rd Annual Report from the Commission on "Monitoring the Application of Community Law" and the announcement of additional analysis foreseen in the Communication from the Commission "A Europe of Results – Applying Community Law". This report from the European Parliament represents an extremely valuable (helpful) contribution to our common aim of providing timely and correct application of the Community law.
  • 20.02.2008
    Address of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, dr Dimitrij Rupel – Statement on behalf of the EU Council at the Plenary session of the European Parliament on Kosovo . If I think hard, and if I overlook a few minor details, I am forced to acknowledge that the members of my generation – and of course our younger colleagues – have been rather lucky. We have spent the best part of our lives at a time when doors and windows of opportunity were opening. This period began in 1975 with the Helsinki Final Act and the most tangible effects were felt in Eastern and Central Europe with the collapse of the Berlin Wall and the Communist system in 1989. The demolished wall, and the doors and windows opened up in the Eastern facade of the Euro-Atlantic community revealed a new perspective. We saw the vast, sunny and varied landscape of a united and free Europe, which is embodied most excellently in this magnificent building of the European Parliament. When I was young, I could not imagine ever having the opportunity to speak here.
  • 20.02.2008
    Report on the Treaty of Lisbon – statement by State Secretary for European Affairs Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council. The Presidency welcomes this opportunity to discuss the Treaty of Lisbon. We also thank the European Parliament for the work done, in particular for the report prepared by MEPs Corbett and Mendez de Vigo. We agree with the positive assessment of many elements of this Treaty. It is a fact that, for quite some time now, Europe has been facing numerous challenges both within the Union and in the global community. Therefore, the reforms are undoubtedly needed.
  • 19.02.2008
    Speech by Minister Žiga Turk at the European Parliament Plenary Session. It is of extreme pleasure for me to speak at the plenary session of the European Parliament dedicated to the launch of the new cycle of the Lisbon strategy for Growth and Jobs, the key programme framework for the modernization of Europe and its future. The signing of the Lisbon Treaty marks the end of a period in which we have worked hard at getting ourselves in shape – first economically and, more recently, politically. Europe is now significantly better equipped to open itself to the world and play a part in shaping world trends.
  • 19.02.2008
    Report presented by the State Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Mr Matjaž Šinkovec, on the discussion after the GAERC meeting of 18.2.2008 to the AFET Committee of the EP. Distinguished Members of the European Parliament, As a representative elected to the first democratic Slovenian Parliament and as the Chairman of its Committee on Foreign Policy who was the first to establish contact with the European Parliament, it is my very great pleasure to be able to address you today. I am pleased to present a report on yesterday’s meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council and to be able to exchange views on relevant topical issues with you, the members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a spirit of transparency and partnership.
  • 18.02.2008
    Opening Address by the State Secretary Andrej Šter at the Conference on the Challenges of EU-27 Development Policy. Europe has demonstrated its desire, willingness and strength to enhance partnership in the area of development cooperation. We are the largest global donor and contribute more than one half of the overall world development aid. Thus, we largely contribute to the improvement of living conditions of many people, institutional capacities of countries, administration, democratic development, human rights and international peace and security.
  • 12.02.2008
    Speech at the 4th Joint Parliamentary Meeting on the Lisbon Strategy - Monday 11 and Tuesday 12 February 2008. As a representative of the Member State currently holding the Presidency of the EU Council, I am very happy to accept your invitation to address the elected representatives of all 27 Member States of the European Union. Slovenia's Presidency of the EU Council coincides with a new chapter in the development of Europe. The signing of the Lisbon Treaty marks the end of a period in which we have worked hard at getting ourselves in shape – first economically and, more recently, politically. Europe is now significantly better equipped to open itself to the world and play a part in shaping world trends. The current moment is marked by a number of other moments.
  • 11.02.2008
    "Malta Communiqué" (EU- League of Arab States Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting). 1. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Members States of the European Union, the League of Arab States, as well as the EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, the Commissioner for External Relations and the Secretary General of the Arab League, participated in a meeting under the co-chairmanship of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Slovenia, Dr. Dimitrij Rupel, of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness Prince Saud Al-Faisal, and of Malta Dr. Michael Frendo.
  • 08.02.2008
    Concluding Speech of the Slovenian Minister of Health Zofija Mazej Kukovič (Conference "The Burden of Cancer - How Can it be Reduced"). Only healthy and creative citizens can participate in and make considerable contributions to a more competitive and more successful economy, which is also the goal of the Lisbon Strategy. Furtermore, it is important that all citizens quickly receive all the necessary and best care and support if they suffer from a severe illness. If we manage to control cancer, which might become the greatest public healthcare challenge in the near future, we will also be more successful in the economic aspect.
  • 07.02.2008
    Opening Address of the Slovenian Minister of Health Zofija Mazej Kukovič (Conference "The Burden of Cancer - How Can it be Reduced"). Commissioner, Members of the European Parliament, Members of the Slovenian Parliament, Representatives of the World Health Organization, High Representatives of the European Union Member States, candidate countries and countries of the Western Balkans, Distinguished participants, Ladies and Gentlemen, I have great pleasure to be able to welcome you as a host to Brdo, the venue of major events of the Slovenian Presidency. I would especially like to extend a cordial welcome to those of you who are visiting Slovenia for the first time. I hope you will find some time to explore our beautiful country and its unique features as well as to enjoy the hospitality of our people. Your attendance in such large numbers demonstrates a strong interest of the expert and political milieu in controlling cancer, the topic of this conference. The search for answers on how to reduce the burden of cancer plays a special role in my life. Before I was appointed Minister of Health, I was actively involved in Europa Donna, a non-governmental organisation, where I had came face-to-face with the distress suffered by women with breast cancer. Their stories helped me realise that cancer is not just an illness but something that leaves a deep mark on the lives of individuals, their families and friends. Nevertheless, I have also learned that it is possible to beat cancer and to continue to lead an active life.

January

  • 31.01.2008
    Statement by State Secretary Janez Lenarčič on behalf of the EU Council regarding the US anti-missile shield. The Council of the European Union has not discussed the establishment of the US anti-missile shield and its possible stationing in the territory of the EU; therefore, I am in no position to convey the Council's opinion on this issue. I would like to remind you that decision-making concerning the hosting of armed forces or military equipment is within the competence of every Member State, the Member States being thus independent in their decisions on these matters.
  • 31.01.2008
    Speech by Minister Dragutin Mate at the Plenary Session of the European Parliament. It is a pleasure to be here today and take part in such an important debate. Implementing policies in the area of justice and home affairs is extremely important for our citizens. With the progress of our society and development of modern technologies, security has become one of the most important concerns of our citizens. I believe that the representatives of the Council, the Commission and the Parliament share the same goals: to ensure such conditions for cooperation between Member States which will guarantee an adequate level of security for our citizens.
  • 30.01.2008
    Intervention by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Slovenia, President of the Council of the EU, Dr Dimitrij Rupel. It is my pleasure to address you here in Strasbourg and to have the opportunity to present priorities of the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2008. We are living in a moment of historical importance for the EU. The first Presidency of a new Member State confirms the legitimacy of the decision to unite the European continent and in doing so to overcome its unnatural division. Indeed, it is a tribute to the courage with which both Western democratic nations and Central and Eastern European nations seized the historic opportunity presented by the end of the Cold War.
  • 29.01.2008
    Address by the President of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, Iztok Jarc, before the European Parliament Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development Brussels . I am both honoured and pleased to participate in your meeting today and share with you the Council Presidency's vision on the priorities for the first half of this year in our joint field of policy and legislation. I wish to underline the importance that I and the Slovenian Presidency attach to the important role which the European Parliament, and your Committee in particular, plays in the legislative process for the agriculture sector. I look forward to working closely with you to ensure smooth progress on the proposals currently before us. Slovenia is the first of the Member States which joined the European Union in the last wave of enlargement to hold the Council Presidency. We will endeavour to effectively carry out the tasks entrusted to us.
  • 29.01.2008
    Address by the President of the General Affairs and External Relations Council, Slovenian Foreign Minister Dr Dimitrij Rupel, before the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs. Slovenia has proudly assumed the demanding task of EU Council Presidency. We are well aware of the responsibilities this entails, and therefore we have thoroughly prepared ourselves for this challenge. The priorities of the six-month Slovenian Presidency Programme follow the 18-month Presidency Programme prepared in collaboration with the other two Trio countries, Germany and Portugal. We particularly appreciate the valuable assistance and contributions offered by the European institutions during the preparation period, and I am convinced that we will maintain successful cooperation and open dialogue in the future. In its programme, the Slovenian Presidency outlined five main priority areas: the future of Europe and successful ratification of the Treaty of Lisbon, endorsement of the energy and climate change package, the launch of a new cycle of the Lisbon Strategy for Growth and Jobs, enlargement and the European Neighbourhood Policy (a European perspective for the Western Balkans), and intercultural dialogue.
  • 29.01.2008
    Address by Minister of Defence Karl Erjavec to the Informal Meeting of Defence Policy Directors-General of EU Member States. Dear ladies and gentlemen, honourable general, honourable officers and other guests! It is my great pleasure to say a few words at the beginning of your important meeting. I’m well aware of its importnace and of the fact that this is the first meeting in the field of European Security and Defence Policy, which we have the opportunity to host here in Brdo in Slovenia. I welcome you and wish you a pleasant stay in Slovenia! I’m convinced that you are familiarised with the priority tasks of our presidency, which is why I won’t present them separately, however I do want to emphasize some topics, which inseparably connect the European Security and Defence Policy with broader, very important European Union’s programme priorities, like the enlargement and the Treaty of Lisbon, climate change, free flow of knowledge, and the intercultural dialogue. Only a secure and stable Europe and a secure and stable wider environment can provide opportunities for further economic growth and development, and thus the basis of these priorities.
  • 29.01.2008
    Presentation of the Programme and Priorities of the Slovenian Presidency of ECOFIN to the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee of the European Parliament by Dr Andrej Bajuk. Chairwoman Madame Berès, Members of the Committee, Ladies and Gentlemen, Thank you for the invitation and the opportunity to outline the programme of the Slovenian Presidency of Ecofin. I shall begin with a brief presentation of our programme and priorities in the sphere of economic and financial affairs and then give you, respected Committee members, more time for questions and comments.
  • 28.01.2008
    Speech by Minister Marjeta Cotman at the meeting of the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality in the European Parliament. Let me first thank you for the invitation to attend this meeting of the Committee to present the priorities of the Slovenian EU Council Presidency in the field of gender equality. I see the meeting as an excellent opportunity both for encouraging the necessary discussions on subjects in this field and for bolstering cooperation between the Council and Parliament. After speaking, I will listen with interest to your positions and views and do my best to respond to your questions and initiatives.
  • 28.01.2008
    Andrej Šter, State Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia: Presentation of the Slovenian EU Council Presidency Programme to the European Parliament Committee on Development (DEVE). Mr Borrell, Distinguished Members of the European Parliament, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great pleasure and honour for me to be here today to present to the members of the European Parliament Committee on Development the programme of the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the field of international development cooperation and humanitarian aid. Since it became independent in 1991, the Republic of Slovenia has developed successfully. It is the first of the new Member States that joined the European Union after 2004 to be given the opportunity to take the helm of this community of European nations with a population of almost 500 million.
  • 25.01.2008
    Statement by the Prime Minister of Slovenia and the President of the European Council, Mr Janez Janša on Current EU Topics. A warm hello to everybody. Let me begin with some matters relating to the Presidency of the European Union. As you know, the European Commission yesterday presented the environmental and energy package, which is one of the priorities of the Slovenian Presidency of the European Union Council. As we noted in the communication, we welcome this proposal. We are certain that this is one of the most important legislative packages of the European Union in the early 21st century. This proposal elaborates the goals generally determined for the whole European Union in March 2007 so as to suggest the ways to achieve them as well as recommend the concrete commitments of the Member States.
  • 24.01.2008
    Presentation by Minister Radovan Žerjav of the programme of the Slovenian Presidency in relation to the Galileo Regulation. I do not intend to take too much of the time of my dear colleagues, Minister Vizjak and Minister Kucler Dolinar, as they are both presenting an ambitious programme today. But I wanted to take the opportunity in my role as Minister of Transport to address the European GALILEO and EGNOS satellite navigation programmes, concerning which Parliament and the Council must lay down the legal basis for the further successful deployment of GALILEO as a public sector project. Thanks to the efforts undertaken by the German and the Portuguese presidencies as well as by the European Commission last year, we were able to work together with you to move the European GNSS Programme out of its deadlock. Now, we are taking the courageous step of taking GALILEO back into our public responsibility, thereby avoiding the failure of a project of such high strategic and economic importance for the European Union.
  • 23.01.2008
    Address by Minister Dr Dimitrij Rupel to the European Parliament (AFCO). It is my honour to be here with you today. I am particularly pleased that we have the opportunity to review some topical EU issues and Slovenia’s EU Presidency programme. Since the rejection of the Constitutional Treaty in 2005, Europe has been seeking a way out of the existing situation, particularly in order to make the Union more efficient, transparent and closer to its citizens. The European Parliament has had a significant role in this process. The very aim of the Lisbon Treaty is to make the enlarged Union more democratic.
  • 23.01.2008
    Presentation by Minister Radovan Žerjav of the programme of the Slovenian Presidency (transport issues). Mr Chairman, Honourable Members, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great honour for me to be here today to present the priorities of the Slovenian Presidency to the TRAN Committee of the European Parliament in the area of transport, for which I am responsible. Slovenia is the first of the ten new Member States that joined the European Union in 2004 to assume the Presidency. This is a sign of great trust and recognition of our achievements so far, but it also represents a great responsibility for us. I hope that – with your help and cooperation – we will be able to overcome the difficulties any EU Presidency would have to face and achieve our objectives. The Slovenian Presidency attaches the greatest importance to constructive and trustful cooperation with the European Parliament in general, and with the members of the TRAN Committee in particular. Given the number of co-decision dossiers in the transport area, close cooperation with the members of the Committee seems indispensable if we want to obtain significant results.
  • 23.01.2008
    Minister Bajuk: European Financial Supervision, Crisis Management on Financial Markets. Dear Madam Beres, distinguished members of the European and national parliaments, ladies and gentlemen, It is indeed my pleasure to be here today and to participate in the debate on the most topical subject of European Financial Supervision and Crisis Management. The timing could not be better to say a few words, for the first time in Slovenian history as the presiding country of the EU, about this topic of our mutual interest and concern, which I am sure will engage our minds intensively in the future. This topic is a clear priority for the Slovenian ECOFIN presidency in the first half of 2008.
  • 22.01.2008
    Presentation of Dragutin Mate, Minister of the Interior of the Republic of Slovenia, to the LIBE Committee of the European Parliament - Brussels, 22 January 2008. Distinguished Chairman, Members of the LIBE Committee, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is a great honour for me to present to the European Parliament the priorities of the Slovenian Presidency in the field of Justice and Home Affairs. We have been preparing for the Presidency for over two years and have ambitious plans. Although we have a small of group of experts as compared to larger countries, I personally believe that this can be to our advantage, since it enables us to make decisions more quickly.
  • 22.01.2008
    Presentation of the activities in the field of territorial cohesion and urban development by the minister Janez Podobnik at the Parliament Committee for Regional Development (REGI) of the European Parliament, 22 January 2008. It is my pleasure having the opportunity to present to you Slovenian activities in the field of territorial cohesion and urban development during the EU presidency. The process of the territorial cohesion and urban development, which evolved from the European spatial development perspectives and post-Rotterdam process, has culminated in the adoption of the Leipzig documents, the Territorial Agenda of the EU and the Leipzig Charter on the Sustainable European Cities.
  • 22.01.2008
    Address by Ivan Žagar, PhD, minister responsible for local self-government and regional policy, to the Regional Development Committee of the European Parliament. Let me first of all express my gratitude for your kind invitation and underline the fact that the Slovenian Presidency considers relations with the European Parliament of great importance. This is to be attributed not only to the new, significantly reinforced role of the European Parliament vested in it by the new Lisbon Treaty, but also to the concrete conceptual issues we will all face in the field of cohesion policy in the months and years to come. The issue of future policy-making as regards development is closely intertwined with the issue of the EU vision, where the European Parliament undoubtedly assumes a vital role.
  • 22.01.2008
    Address by Minister Marjeta Cotman at the European Parliament Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (Empl). Madam Vice-Chairwoman, Distinguished Members of the Committee, Thank you for inviting me to speak here today. It is my privilege to present the priorities of the Slovenian Presidency work programme in the field of employment and social affairs. Let me begin by outlining the most important topics which will be at the forefront of the Slovenian Presidency’s concerns. After that, I will listen with interest to your opinions and do my best to respond to your questions and initiatives. Let me stress how valuable I consider this kind of dialogue – and indeed every opportunity for exchanging views on issues to do with the future of European citizens. The European Parliament plays a central role in shaping policy for the future of Europe. My hope is, therefore, for constructive cooperation, particularly with this Committee, since only by pooling our efforts can we take a step forward in improving the social image of the European Union and the wellbeing of every citizen.
  • 21.01.2008
    Speech of the Minister of Public Administration Dr Gregor Virant at the Legal Affairs Committee of the European Parliament. It is with great pleasure that during the Slovenian Presidency I address the Committee today concerning better regulation. The Legal Affairs Committee has a long track record of interest in better regulation and has played an important role promoting the agenda within the European Parliament, as well as with other institutions. I very much welcome the Committee's involvement and, on behalf of the Slovenian Presidency, I should like to say that my colleagues and I look forward to working constructively with you in the next six months. The Slovenian Presidency falls at a crucial phase in the evolution of the better regulation agenda. The Commission's Second Strategic Review, which is due to be adopted at the end of this month, provides an opportunity to take stock of the progress made so far and identify the areas where the EU institutions need to do better. However, actions speak louder than words, and I hope that during the Slovenian Presidency, we shall see more examples of application of better regulation principles and techniques contributing towards better policy outcomes which will in turn have a strong impact on the competitiveness of businesses in the European Union.
  • 16.01.2008
    State Secretary for European Affairs Janez Lenarčič: Statement by the EU Council on the situation in Pakistan at the plenary session of the European Parliament. The assassination of former Prime Minister and main opposition leader Benazir Bhutto has complicated an already highly complex picture in the run-up to general elections on 18 February 2008. Bhutto-murder disturbed a gradual process of transition to a more democratic system in Pakistan. Ms Benazir Bhutto was undoubtedly a personality who could have contributed to progress in such areas as economic growth, decreasing levels of corruption and a tendency towards freer media. Since the imposition of emergency rule on 3 November 2007, the EU, including the European Parliament, has emphasised the need for stability and called for reconciliation and a return to democracy. Recent developments underline that stability in Pakistan is our core interest. This means support to Pakistan's moderate majority in its struggle against a violent extremist minority.
  • 16.01.2008
    State Secretary for European Affairs Janez Lenarčič: Statement by the EU Council on the report on Proposal for a Council Decision establishing the European Police Office (EUROPOL) at the plenary session of the European Parliament. The Slovenian Presidency thanks the Honourable Member of Parliament, Mr Díaz De Mera Garcìa Consuegra for his report on the Commission proposal for a Council Decision establishing the European Police Office (EUROPOL). Discussions on the draft Decision are still ongoing in the Council and the Presidency will refer to the Honourable Member of Parliament's report in these discussions. The Presidency notes the considerations of the Rapporteur, in particular regarding data protection and democratic control over Europol.
  • 16.01.2008
    State Secretary for European Affairs Janez Lenarčič: Statement by the EU Council on the situation in Kenya at the plenary session of the European Parliament. I am pleased that today the European Parliament will discuss the resolution on the current situation in Kenya and vote on it. By appointing Mr Lambsdorff to head the EU Election Observation Mission and a delegation of the EP under the leadership of Mr Mulder, the Parliament has already given an important signal of its interest in the situation in Kenya. Elections in Kenya took place on 27 December. The very high participation of the Kenyans demonstrated their commitment to and their trust in the democratic process. The EU Election Observation Mission, present on the ground and led by distinguished member of this house, Mr Lambsdorff, noted irregularities in the counting and tallying process of the presidential election. These irregularities cast serious doubts on the actual outcome of that election.
  • 16.01.2008
    Address by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia and the President of the European Council Janez Janša at the Plenary Session of the European Parliament. It is my honour and pleasure – and, indeed, also a matter of great pride – to be here with you today. I am very proud as a Slovene whose country has been entrusted with the Presidency of the EU as the first new European Union Member State to be awarded this honour. It is an honour for me as a European whose Union is entering 2008 with a signed Lisbon Treaty, and enlarged euro and Schengen zones. I assure you that in the coming months until summer, if you invite me, I shall be delighted to come here more often, and certainly after each meeting of the European Council. I indeed look forward to close and constructive cooperation with the European Parliament throughout the six-month period.
  • 16.01.2008
    Minister of Labour, Family and Social Affairs Marjeta Cotman: Presentation of the Presidency Programme. First of all, I would like to thank you for the invitation, since it is a great honour for me personally to appear before the assembly which will very shortly celebrate 50 years of its existence. I'm also extremely happy that I have today the opportunity to meet all of you who are part of that decision-making within the European Union which most directly reflects the expectations and worries of the citizens of the EU.
  • 08.01.2008
    Statement by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Janez Janša, following the Meeting of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia and the European Commission. I, too, would like to wish you all a warm welcome, especially the Vice-President of the European Commission, Mrs Margot Wallström. We are very pleased to see her and the other members of the European Commission here today. This is an important meeting which marks the beginning of the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The meeting may be a traditional one, but it is also one that so far has been devoted principally to matters of hard content, and this will continue in the afternoon. We have got to know each other better. We have talked chiefly about the key challenges facing the European Union in the first half of 2008. The Commissioners and colleagues from the Government of the Republic of Slovenia have already had discussions on eighteen dossiers. We have also had separate talks with the Vice-President, Mrs Wallström. The proceedings will continue with a working lunch and a plenary meeting between the European Commission and the Government of the Republic of Slovenia.
  • 08.01.2008
    Address by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia Janez Janša on the Occasion of the Opening Event of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue. In Slovenia, we are delighted that the beginning of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue coincides with our Presidency of the Council of the European Union. We think that, for various reasons, it is a well-chosen moment. Three weeks ago, we signed a new reform treaty, the Lisbon Treaty. With this Treaty, the European Union is capable of continuing its historic project of economic and political integration and global competitiveness. In the current term of office of the European Parliament and the European Commission, we have adopted a number of solutions aimed at safeguarding the health of our environment and further bolstering the economic and political strength of the European Union. With the latest enlargement, with millions of new jobs and enhanced prosperity, the European Union’s economic and political power has indeed increased considerably.
  • 19.12.2007
    Statement by Janez Janša, Prime Minister of Slovenia, Following the Meeting with the Conference of Presidents of the European Parliament. Let me wish a warm welcome to everyone, and in particular to Mr Hans-Gert Pöttering, the President of the European Parliament. Mr Pöttering has chaired the discussions we have just had with the Conference of Presidents of the European Parliament, which is formed by the President of the European Parliament and the chairmen of the political groups, which are the groupings of members that make up the European Parliament.
 

Accessibility     . Print     .


Date: 28.12.2007