Slovenia and Austria’s Foreign Ministers on EU Enlargement in the Western Balkans

Vienna – The foreign ministers of Slovenia Tanja Fajon and Austria Beate Meinl-Reisinger agreed during their first bilateral meeting in Vienna that discussions about developments in the Western Balkans should remain on the EU agenda. They mentioned the possibility of a joint visit to one of the countries in the region.

As the ministers stated after the meeting, they intend to keep the Western Balkans in focus through their visits, mentioning the possibility of a joint visit to one of the countries. Meinl-Reisinger emphasized that the Western Balkans is important for Austria in terms of security and stability.

They both expressed concern about the secessionist rhetoric of the President of the Republic of Srpska, Milorad Dodik, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and expressed the belief that it would be best to adopt coordinated measures at the level of the European Union. In this context, the Austrian minister acknowledged that this is impossible due to Hungary’s blockade.

While Austria and Germany have banned Dodik from entering the country, Fajon stated that Slovenia is open to all options, but they do not yet have a final decision.

The ministers discussed numerous topics, emphasizing similar positions regarding multilateralism and commitment to international law.

Regarding bilateral relations, they highlighted that these are close and friendly. The two countries cooperate well in several areas, including the economy, where they will establish an Austrian-Slovenian business club in May.

Minister Fajon also emphasized the importance of strengthening the protection of the Slovenian minority in Austria and advocated for bilingualism throughout the entire educational period. Austrian Minister Meinl-Reisinger agreed that minorities are important, while also reminding of the German-speaking minority in Slovenia. (April 25)