Slovenia and Hungary are among the most successful EU Member States in combating the Covid-19 pandemic, assessed the two counterparts. Based on a favourable epidemiological situation and diplomatic efforts, Slovenia and Hungary agreed to lift restrictions on the crossing of the state border for Slovenian and Hungarian citizens as of 28 May.

The two ministers pleaded that all borders in the region be opened shortly.

They also discussed EU action to tackle the economic, fiscal and other implications of the pandemic, exchanging views on the current Commission’s proposal for a Multiannual Financial Framework, which also provides for the establishment of a Recovery and Resilience Facility. Minister Logar spoke in favour of rapidly agreeing on an ambitious MFF, which is necessary to respond to the Covid-19 fallout, adding that cohesion policy remained one of Slovenia’s priorities.

The counterparts also assessed the state of play regarding cross-border transport and energy projects, particularly the Cirkovce-Pince-Hévíz transmission line and the Kidričevo-Pince-Nagykanizsa gas interconnector.

As regards bilateral relations, they pointed to the importance of implementing the rights of the respective national minorities. The Slovenian Foreign Minister welcomed the development programme for the Rába region adopted by the Hungarian Government last October, and expressed expectation that calls for applications for financing will be published soon.

After the meeting with his Hungarian counterpart, Minister Logar will talk to representatives of the Slovenian national minority and hear their views on current topics for Slovenes living in Hungary. He will then visit the Lipa Slovenian Cultural and Information Centre, which is also the seat of the Slovenian Radio Monošter and the Porabje newspaper.