Ljubljana – During his official visit to Slovenia, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon and Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša regretted that the UN Security Council had failed to pass a resolution on Syria on Thursday. Ban Ki Moon expressed hope that the Security Council would extend the mission of UN security observers in the country and called on both sides to stop the killing and the use of heavy weapons against civilians. The PM added that Slovenia supported the peace plan proposed by the UN envoy Kofi Annan and decried the mass violations of human rights in Syria.
Today's visit of the UN Secretary-General to Slovenia coincides with the 20th anniversary of Slovenia's joining the UN. On this occasion, PM Janša expressed the opinion that Slovenia had proved to be a credible partner. He said that global events confirm the need for a UN whose activities are global and efficiently implemented. Nevertheless, Slovenia does support certain reforms intended to increase the transparency and efficiency of the UN, which were discussed today.
Much time was devoted to discussing the situation in the region. According to Mr Janša, both sides agree that the dependence of some of the countries in the region on the international community should decrease, while the process of integration into Euro-Atlantic organisations should acccelerate and ensure that events like those in Srebrenica would never occur again.
The PM also expressed gratitude that, during his tour of the countries of the Western Balkans, Ban Ki Moon plans to visit Srebrenica, as this is a significant symbolic act which also contributes to calls for amendments to relevant international law. The PM said that Slovenia would strive for amendments to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
During his visit, the UN Secretary-General addressed the National Assembly and highlighted the most significant merits of Slovenia in the international community and the tasks awaiting it. He mentioned Slovenia's efforts for reconcilliation and permanent stability in the area of former Yugoslavia, care for refugees, participation in international forces in the area and the country's contribution to landmine disposal. According to the UN Secretary-General, Slovenia served with distinction on the UN Security Council and UN Human Rights Council and is also an example in the field of women's rights.