Prime Minister Golob began by thanking Minister Šarec for the excellent work he had done and wished him every success in his new career.
 
He went on to highlight three key areas that he and Minister Šarec had discussed: "The breakdown of budget expenditure for 2025 and 2026 is in line with Slovenia's international commitments to the Alliance. The funds foreseen will be sufficient to implement all plans for the modernisation of the Slovenian Armed Forces in terms of increasing the number of personnel and the purchase of equipment. The withdrawal from the project to purchase Boxer 8x8 vehicles is being finalised. The procedures have taken almost two years, and the Finnish company Patria has proved to be the most appropriate bidder for the time being."
 
Prime Minister Golob explained that negotiations were ongoing between the Ministries of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia and of the Republic of Finland.  This proves that this is a direct transaction between the two countries, and the contract will also provide for a direct payment between the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Finland, which will ensure the highest possible level of transparency. "This would also remove the stain on the relations between Slovenia and Finland due to past purchases from the same manufacturer," said Prime Minister Golob, adding that Patria has established itself as a provider of equipment for NATO missions and to the Finnish Armed Forces. According to the Prime Minister, the contract could be finalised by the end of this year.
 
Minister of Defence Marjan Šarec stressed that the funds foreseen under the budget for 2025 and 2026 will make it possible to carry out the planned modernisation of the Slovenian Armed Forces, as outlined at the time of taking office and foreseen in all the strategic documents: "I am pleased that we have also had the support and understanding of the Prime Minister in this respect." He also pointed out that the trend in defence expenditure gives reason for optimism, because "modernisation" is taking place in three areas – equipment, personnel and even the mindset that the Slovenian Armed Forces exist for the people.
 
Yesterday, Prime Minister Golob and Minister Šarec had a bilateral meeting with the President of the Republic of Finland, Alexander Stubb. The main topic of the talks between the two leaders and the delegations of Slovenia and Finland was the strengthening of military cooperation and the strengthening of the military industry directly between the two Governments and the Ministries of Defence. They also discussed the security situation in the world, with an emphasis on the war in Ukraine and its impact on the Western Balkans.