The State Secretary recalled the long history of contacts between Slovenians and Austrians and mentioned the values and goals they share now. "Slovenia will always appreciate Austria's support and assistance during the struggle to gain independence," he said. He also highlighted the two countries' membership of the European Union, where they both support the European future for the Western Balkan countries, and their participation in various regional formats. He reminded the audience of the importance of regular bilateral dialogue, which contributes to resolving outstanding issues and overcoming historical burdens. In this context, he mentioned the Slovenian national communities in Carinthia and Styria as special links binding the two countries and went on to express the hope that Austria will take further measures and find systemic solutions to protect minorities. In terms of the economy, Slovenia and Austria are closely connected and interdependent. Their relations are based on a positive agenda, which was highlighted by the 2019–2020 Year of Neighbourhood Dialogue.

In addition to State Secretary Štucin of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the gathered participants were also addressed by the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Dr Iztok Prezelj, and the Austrian Ambassador to Slovenia, Ms Elisabeth Ellison-Kramer. 

The panel discussion that followed was attended by former diplomat and international relations expert Dr Iztok Simoniti, economic analyst at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia Bojan Ivanc, the first Austrian Ambassador to Slovenia, Dr Jutta Stefan-Bastl, and the former Austrian Ambassador to Slovenia, Dr Valentin Inzko.

The event was organised by the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Embassy of the Republic of Austria in Ljubljana.