The two officials agreed that Slovenia and Austria enjoy positive and friendly bilateral relations. The countries share close ties and hold a regular dialogue in many areas of common interest, including the dialogue on the issues of the Slovenian national community in Austria. In this context, Director-General Sušnik highlighted the importance of bilingual education at all levels.

Given the urgency of matters related to the Ukrainian crisis, the Directors-General also devoted attention to the current international and European topics. They agreed it is paramount that the EU responds in a quick and unified manner. Director-General Sušnik underlined the importance of stability in the Western Balkans and the credible continuation of the EU enlargement process in line with the statement adopted at the EU-Western Balkans Summit during the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the EU in October 2021, pointing to the possible negative consequences the war in Ukraine could have for the Western Balkans. They assessed the progress of the Conference on the Future of Europe, with Director-General Sušnik expressing her hope that the final report would reflect the citizens’ positions and that its conclusions would contribute to a better, credible and secure Europe.

The officials also noted the importance of Austria’s cooperation in and support for the activities of ITF Enhancing Human Security.

Director-General Oberreiter was also received by Slobodan Šešum, Director-General for Economic and Public Diplomacy. The discussion centred on bilateral economic cooperation and economic consequences of the war in Ukraine.