State Secretary Štucin stressed that the current geopolitical circumstances in the world are of crucial importance in deciding the future of the EU, which must include the Western Balkans. "Slovenia strongly supports the enlargement of the EU to the Western Balkan countries. We would like to see a political decision taken in December 2023 on the launch of Bosnia and Herzegovina's accession negotiations with the EU. The fact is that in the current geopolitical situation, enlargement is not only an option, but a necessity, both for ensuring stability in the region and for the EU," said State Secretary Štucin.

The Western Balkans are dealing with some unresolved issues that pose a threat to the security and stability of the region. Germany and Slovenia agree on the need to resolve these outstanding issues in dialogue and in a spirit of compromise to avoid escalation. It is crucial for the region to actively participate in reconciliation processes.

The announced EU’s Western Balkans Growth Plan, which will promote the gradual integration of the region into the EU, will also make a positive contribution to accelerating the region's rapprochement.

Special Representative Manuel Sarrazin was also received for a courtesy call by Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon.