State Secretary Raščan emphasised that in recent years, Slovenia had earmarked contributions for the provision of humanitarian aid for refugees and migrants through various international organisations, including the UNHCR. In the last year, Slovenia has mainly allocated funds for the displaced population in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Palestine. In addition, Slovenia offers assistance and support to the forcibly displaced people through bilateral development and humanitarian projects in developing countries. Last year, Slovenia also donated to Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Latin America and will attend a donor conference to show solidarity with displaced Venezuelans this year.

State Secretary Raščan briefed his colleague on the priorities of the Slovenian EU Council Presidency, which also put an emphasis on the protection of the most vulnerable social groups. As this year marks the 70^th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, Slovenia will pay special attention to refugees as the country holding the Presidency. Slovenia will advance the in-depth discussion on the external dimension of migration and highlight the importance of the Union's cooperation with international organisations on the ground, with a view to eliminating the root causes of migration.