The Antalya Diplomacy Forum places emphasis on the importance of multilateralism, dialogue and regional cooperation

After attending the official opening of the forum, President Pirc Musar took part in a special conversation moderated by Ali Arslan, addressing the rise of global uncertainty, the crisis of the international order, and the urgent need to strengthen the role of medium-sized countries in defending multilateralism. She emphasised: "If the great powers fail to act, small and medium-sized countries must not stand aside – they must themselves assume responsibility for preserving peace and security." The Slovenian President once again reaffirmed Slovenia's commitment to an increasingly influential group of countries that clearly highlight at international forums the belief that the international community cannot be the sole domain of the most powerful countries. "Today, common interests matter more than ever, and these are peace, prosperity, and security. We are all equally entitled to them," she stated, stressing the importance of regional and multilateral cooperation platforms, which should be strengthened even further.

On the sidelines of the forum, President Pirc Musar held a meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of the Republic of Türkiye. The two leaders reaffirmed the excellent and friendly relations between Slovenia and Türkiye, which are based on the strategic partnership established in 2011 and the 2024 action plan. They also expressed mutual interest in drafting a new action plan to further strengthen cooperation, given that the current one will soon expire. Particular attention was devoted to economic cooperation, with trade between the two countries continuing to grow. There are also expanding opportunities for cooperation in logistics, construction, tourism, the automotive and defence industries, and green technologies. President Pirc Musar specifically emphasised the strategic importance of the Port of Koper as an efficient logistical link between the Turkish economy and European markets, and welcomed the improved air connectivity between Ljubljana and Istanbul.

A significant portion of the discussion was also devoted to the situation in the Middle East. President Pirc Musar stressed that further military escalation would pose a serious threat to regional and global stability. The only right path forward is to protect the civilian population and use diplomacy.  She warned that the conflict extends beyond regional borders, affecting energy markets, maritime routes, and global supply chains. The leaders also exchanged views on the role of the United Nations and the reform of the UN Security Council.

During the forum, the Slovenian President held bilateral meetings with President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu and Prime Minister of the Republic of Serbia Đuro MacutThe discussions focused on the situation in Ukraine, the European perspective of the Western Balkans and Moldova, and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation. 

In her discussions and public appearances, President Pirc Musar emphasised the importance of respecting international law, as well as the role of the United Nations in addressing wars, humanitarian crises, and the increasingly pronounced geopolitical tensions. She stated: "The situation in the Middle East is not just a regional issue; it is a global problem that concerns us all. It is time for the international community to make it clear that enough is enough. We must make diplomacy the primary means of resolving international disputes – quite simply, to protect people everywhere."