President of the Republic of Slovenia at the Bled Strategic Forum: "The European Union must remain united and resolute in defending the rules-based order"

In a conversation moderated by journalist and presenter Ksenija Horvat, the Slovenian President highlighted the fact that the European Union is built on the principles of multilateralism, international law and diplomacy, but is increasingly facing internal divisions and challenges brought about by changes in the global balance of power. She said that she is not a Eurosceptic. "I still believe in the European Union. I am a European. I believe that we have enough strength and determination to act as we should. However, I miss greater trust among politicians," she said.

In the context of seeking peace in current war zones, the President called for a more decisive role for the EU in resolving these conflicts. She pointed out that the European Union is not united on the conflict in Gaza. The President warned that the situation in Gaza – the disregard for humanitarian law, famine, the suffering and death of mothers and children, and the suffering of the entire population – requires more decisive action to bring about the earliest possible cessation of hostilities and the realisation of a two-state solution.

During the talks she also stressed the urgency of confronting the climate crisis, noting that young people warn that actions are not keeping pace with the commitments made. What will all this mean for countries struggling to achieve their goals if the world falls victim to the climate crisis?" 
The President pointed out that we live in an uncertain world and that the European Union is once again at a crossroads, which is why we need a united, cohesive, strategically focused and more sovereign European Union that knows how to protect its values and interests, and added that the future of the European Union will depend on its ability to maintain unity and the trust of its citizens.

In the afternoon, the President will also be one of the speakers at a panel entitled "Reflection on Multilateral Action Amid Crises and Restrictions", which is taking place as part of the 3rd Slovenian Humanitarian Forum.