In her address, Minister Fajon underlined that "the Internationalisation Council is an important platform for a coordinated and effective dialogue between the internationalisation stakeholders of the Slovenian economy. At a time when we are facing an energy and food crisis, coordinated and focused action in key foreign markets, as well as the predictability and stability of the business and investment environments, including strategic thinking, are more important than ever." As she said, economic diplomacy is at the heart of the work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She went on to outline the achievements and plans in this area.  Economic diplomacy is focused on energy, providing assistance to companies in doing business abroad and supporting their entry into new markets. In addition to the economy, Slovenian foreign policy also promotes Slovenian excellence in science and culture, said Ms Fajon.

Minister Han pointed out that the Slovenian economy generates about two thirds of its trade in goods and services with EU countries.  In this context, he stressed the need to diversify and strengthen the market niches as identified in the Programme promoting Investment and the Internationalisation of the Slovenian Economy. "In line with our strategy and the arrangement reached at the Economic Summit, we will also establish a common platform for all institutions that are part of the internationalisation ecosystem. We have also established a Permanent Working Group for the coordination of internationalisation activities, which will meet monthly and, through coordinated action, assist Slovenian companies aspiring to enter new foreign markets," explained the Minister. As to the search for synergy effects, he recalled the recent signing of the agreement on the establishment of an Economic Coordinating Body of Slovenians in Neighbouring Countries, which will help Slovenia enhance the cooperation with entrepreneurs of the Slovenian national community and with economic and other organised structures of Slovenians living in neighbouring countries and around the world. "In the development of economic relations, these represent a bridge between Slovenia and other countries," concluded Minister Han.

The Council reviewed and coordinated the international economic activities planned for the first half of 2023 and went on to discuss the possibilities for the opening of new diplomatic missions and consular posts and strengthening the network of economic advisers. With a view to ensuring a wider promotion of Slovenia, they took note of the preparations for the Frankfurt Book Fair 2023, the plans to showcase Slovenia's economy in Dubai, and the preparations for Expo 2025 Osaka. They also reviewed the candidatures for Expo 2030. The co-chairing ministers were joined in their discussion by representatives of the SID Bank, the SPIRIT Public Agency, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia and the Chamber of Craft and Small Business of Slovenia.

Acting Director of the Slovenian Book Agency Katja Stergar took part, as a special guest, in the discussion on the Frankfurt Book Fair 2023 and Slovenia. The participants agreed on the importance of a comprehensive and coordinated presentation of Slovenian literature and Slovenia in Frankfurt, which will include active participation of diplomatic missions and consular posts.

The Internationalisation Council deals with expert issues related to the promotion of the internationalisation of the Slovenian economy, brings together governmental and non-governmental stakeholders and provides effective assistance to businesses entering foreign markets and doing business with foreign countries. To optimise the operations and coordination of the activities of all stakeholders, the Council established a Permanent Working Group for the coordination of internationalisation activities.