Prime Minister Janez Janša meets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia Janez Janša also held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister of the State of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu | Author Danijel Kovačič Grmek/KPV

The meeting took place at a time of intensified political dialogue between the two countries. Relations between Slovenia and Israel have traditionally been friendly since Slovenia gained independence, irrespective of developments in the Middle East. Relations deteriorated only during the term of the previous government, causing Slovenia considerable economic and political damage. During the current term, the two countries have already taken concrete steps to strengthen political, economic, scientific and technological cooperation.

The two prime ministers welcomed the normalisation of relations and expressed their commitment to further strengthening them through concrete projects. They focused in particular on science and research, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, economic cooperation, investment and tourism. Artificial intelligence, high technologies, defence, research and investment partnerships are among the areas in which the two countries see considerable scope for further strengthening their cooperation.

The two prime ministers agreed on the importance of translating good political relations into new opportunities for businesses, research institutions, investors and citizens of both countries, while also fostering direct people-to-people ties.

Slovenia and Israel have a wealth of knowledge, expertise and entrepreneurial potential. We are creating the conditions for this potential to come together and translate into tangible results for the benefit of both countries and their citizens.