The rule of law report of the Commission is the first of what will become an annual review. It is expected to focus on four pillars: the judicial system, the anti-corruption framework, freedom of the press, and institutional and constitutional issues. Commissioner Reynders took pains to underscore that the report will be drawn based on the principle of transparency and ensuring equal treatment of all Member States according to the same objective criteria. The report is expected to be published in September; the autumn General Affairs Council will later hold the annual dialogue on the rule of law.

Minister Logar and Commissioner Reynders also touched on the mutual cooperation and the tasks facing Slovenia as it takes over the Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2021. The European Commission is expected to adapt its work programme this autumn. The revised programme will be tailored to reflect the challenges arising from the current situation heavily affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, and will include concrete plans on the Green Deal and the digital transformation of the EU. Minister Logar assured the Commissioner that Slovenia intends to play a proactive role, especially during the term of its Presidency.