Štucin expressed Slovenia's continued support for Ukraine. He emphasised the wide range of assistance provided by Slovenia, including mine action, rehabilitation of war victims, psychosocial support for children and their families, and assistance with reforms. Regarding EU enlargement, the State Secretary encouraged Ukraine to continue its reform efforts with unwavering determination.

In the debate on the Middle East, State Secretary Štucin warned that one year after the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, the entire region is on the brink of war. He highlighted the attacks on UNIFIL troops in Lebanon, which were in violation of international law, and the attempts to delegitimise the work of the UN Secretary-General, which are counterproductive at the moment, and stressed the importance of UNRWA in the region. Štucin urged all states to support activities to prevent the collapse of the Palestinian Authority and reiterated Slovenia's call for the implementation of a two-state solution.

Regarding the EU's global competitiveness, State Secretary Štucin stressed that this should be a key priority in the next EU legislative cycle. Slovenia believes that the Draghi report adequately identifies key challenges and areas requiring improvement and appropriate action.

In the discussion on current foreign policy issues, State Secretary Štucin drew attention to the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Sudan, which is becoming a forgotten conflict. He underlined Slovenia's concern at the relentless fighting in the country and echoed calls for measures to ensure safe, unimpede and sustained humanitarian access.

With regard to Georgia, Štucin noted that the government's current actions jeopardise the accession process. In his view, the EU should strongly encourage Georgia to recognise the European aspirations of the Georgian people and to show a clear commitment to the EU integration path.

Members of the General Affairs Council also took note of the state of play in EU-Switzerland relations. State Secretary Štucin supported the European Commission's efforts to resolve outstanding issues and conclude the negotiations as soon as possible. He advocated a solution acceptable to the EU, the Member States and Switzerland.

The Council also approved a declaration on fostering Jewish life and combating antisemitism. On these issues, minister also held an exchange of views with Sirpa Rautio, Director of the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights. 

Under AOB, the Commission briefed the General Affairs Council on the state of play of EU-UK relations.