The counterparts agreed that relations between Slovenia and France are excellent, strategic, and diversified, and expressed confidence that the two countries will continue to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

The successive Slovenian and French presidencies of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2021 and the first half of 2022, respectively, present an excellent opportunity to strengthen bilateral partnership and strategic dialogue.

The directors-general exchanged information on activities undertaken by both countries to contain the COVID-19 epidemic, and on the importance of solidarity and common European solutions in tackling the health crisis and its impact. They also paid attention to the agreement on the Multiannual Financial Framework and the Recovery Fund, underlining that their timely implementation is crucial to successfully overcoming the economic, social, and fiscal consequences of the epidemic.

Director-General Sušnik outlined Slovenia’s priorities for the EU Council Presidency, particularly the strengthening of the Union’s resilience to various crises, the annual rule of law dialogue, and the continuation of the Union’s enlargement process. In this context, both directors-general made a point of stressing the importance of continuing reforms in the Western Balkans on the one hand, while providing credible enlargement prospects of the EU on the other.

The Conference on the Future of Europe will be among the topics that will define the successive presidencies of the two countries. Its successful delivery and a high-quality debate with EU citizens will be crucial for the future of Europe.

Directors-general Sušnik and Cvach also found time to exchange views on other topical European issues, devoting particular attention to migration flows and to seeking agreement on the proposal for a new Pact on Migration and Asylum.