Government of Slovenia

Policy topics Government of Slovenia is active on

What Government of Slovenia has said (80)

• 2026-07-14 “(18:12:25 - 18:14:27): Thank you, Chris, and also to be with us for the whole day. So there is still 1 to go. Will you join us? Thank you so much. So, indeed, I many times claim that, Moldova is the best student in my class. Now I changed my rhetorics because it is the best performer in my class. So I believe, Christina Gerasimo, the chief negotiator, when she really wants to, come closer and closer to the, fulfilling of the interim benchmarks for the rule of law. So what needs to be done? Moldova has done a lot on the field of judiciary transformation, of of choosing the judges on the media landscape, on the media pluralism, on anti, anti corruption. These are the most demanding, as I have said from the cluster 1, things, but, Modova is really good on the, on the way. It is something where we we see that it is a really genius approach from the government, I hope from the new prime minister, too, to advance in in the areas where actually there will be no way back. This is what, I really like, when I work with Moldovans. No way back would mean that, there is a rule of law where there are no oligarchs with special rights, where if somebody is doing something wrong, it will have, it will have to go to the the court. So this is you know, when I see with all the candidate countries, the most difficult, but at the same times, it brings the most to the to the people. So I am full trust. I will not, give you a a date. This is on Christina and, the acting, prime minister, to say, but whatever speed they will choose, I will accompany with them with my team.”
  EU-Moldova relations
• 2026-07-14 “(18:08:15 - 18:11:44): Dear acting, prime minister, dear Eugene, dear minister, Thomas, Yes. This is a super Tuesday for EU enlargement, and Moldova is a part of it. We are holding 4 accession conferences today with Moldova, Ukraine, Montenegro, and Albania. We have not had so many in 1 day since 2002. This comes after only 14 days into the Irish council presidency. Thomas, we will have to work hard. I feel this will be a lucky presidency as you can see here. Only last month, we opened cluster 1 with its focus on fundamental reforms. These are reforms covering an independent judiciary, transparent public procurement, and stronger safeguards against corruption and organized crime. This is the most demanding negotiating cluster for every candidate country. Today, we are opening Cluster 6. This is the cluster on foreign relations as well as security and defense policies. This is the area in which Moldova is already making a strong contribution to the European Union. Moldova is part of the security architecture of our continent. The efforts to improve convergence between all parts of Moldova and ensure its territorial integrity are an important contribution to European stability. And in many areas, Moldova is already helping to protect European security. Moldova has become 1 of Europe's most experienced countries encountering hybrid threats against democratic societies. Over the past years, Russia has repeatedly tried to undermine Poldova's pro European choice each time it has failed. The lessons learned in Moldova are now helping to protect elections across the European Union and supporting partners across our neighborhood. The policy areas covered by cluster 6 are at the heart of building an independent United Europe that can withstand the geopolitical storm we are facing. Some say that cluster 6 and 2 chapters in this cluster are easy. It is not. This cluster is very important. It is about how we, as the European Union, stand together in the world. It is about our external action defending our common values and interests, promoting rules based trade, strengthening our collective security, and most importantly, it is about speaking with 1 European voice. While other clusters prepare candidates for membership, this cluster is about what it actually means to be a member state, assuming responsibility for the EU's role on the global stage. A safer Europe includes Moldova. This is why Moldova's integration is in Europe's own strategic interest. As next step, we should proceed to the opening of the remaining negotiating clusters as soon as possible. They are all technically ready. Dear Thomas, we count on your leadership of the Irish presidency in building the necessary consensus among the member states. Thank you, commissioner. I'll now open it for questions. I see a question from Chris in the front here, please.”
  EU-Moldova relations
• 2026-07-13 “Thank you for the floor. Slovenia would like to thank Italy for raising the issue. We agree that the EU promotion policy has an important role to play in strengthening the competitiveness of the agri food sector, opening up new markets, promoting quality schemes and increasing the visibility of European products simultaneously. We also support the both Hungarian initiatives. We will sign them according to the procedures necessary to access this signature. Thank you both countries for the initiatives. We support them. Thank you.”
  Export of EU agri-food products
• 2026-07-13 “58:51 - 11:02:56): Thank you, dear Martin. Congratulations to a wonderful beginning, and thank you so much for both gifts. Slovenia welcomes the establishment of a comprehensive approach to livestock and protein plan to strengthen the EU food security and strategic autonomy in order to reduce the environmental footprint and especially to make food chains more resilient. What is especially important is synergies between both approaches since the development of protein system directly reinforces the objectives of the livestock strategy, especially regarding feed safety, increased resilience of production systems, and the environmental footprint reduction where it is very important that the implementation is adapted to the diversity of European agricultural systems, and it is feasible at the level of the farms without additional administrative burdens for farmers. It is very important that the administrative burdens decrease rather than increase. In Slovenia, livestock farming accounts for about half of the value of our agricultural production. Therefore, it is extremely important for us to strengthen the economic viability of farms, especially in mountain and hilly areas, family farms, young successors, new farmers in the areas of potential abandoning of farming. It is very important, therefore, to strengthen local value chains to ensure market stability and establish effective mechanisms to support farmers in the event of market crisis, climate crisis, or other disturbances. At the same time, we will need to appropriately address the challenges of coexistence of agriculture with large carnivores, what we already discussed in the last council session, protecting nature with maintaining sustainable agriculture activity. We support measures for long term resilience of agriculture without compromising its productive and social function with which means a balanced approach to sustainability with the environmental, economic, and social pillars on equal footing. We wish to ensure high level of health, animal health, and welfare, strengthen biosecurity, and promote preventive measures, including vaccination. So we support sufficient transitional periods when new requirements are introduced so that the farmers are provided with the possibility to obtain investments for their competitiveness. When importing from 3rd countries onto the EU internal market, we stand for upholding high standards of the EU, particularly in animal, welfare, food safety, and environmental sustainability. The protein plan is an extremely important instrument for us. We need to continue the support to organizations of producers and other value chains for protein crops, especially in the 1st years of their operation. What is important for Slovenia is coupled payments for protein crops. Also in the future, common agricultural policy, the experience in Slovenia has shown that the introduction of this measure has contributed to an increase in the production of protein crops, and the areas for soybeans and clover grass mixtures have increased. We stand for greater coherence between the policies. CAP knowledge transfer innovation system, industrial policy, and trade instruments, and we need and we're aware of this. We need an even better data system and market transparency in order to monitor and assess the progress in these fields. And at the same time, of course, we also need sufficient resources to implement and deliver all the planned measures. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• 2026-07-10 “Thank you, Simon. Slovenia, thanks, to the Irish presidency for the steering note and for the energy it brings to this life, to this file. We support an ambitious agreement, and we will give our official clear mandate to find solutions. Time till October will be short, but, we are ready to work hard. On priorities, Slovenia would point to 3 issues in particular. Further scope of direct supervision. Only entities that are significant across borders should move to ASMA on the basis of clear and objective criteria. Belonging to a group should not, in itself, make an entity significant. We support removing the stand alone group criterion or trying it to a genuine cross border test. 2nd, governance. We support the executive board, but the proposed 2 3rd majority of the board of supervisors to object to the executive board's decision is too high and would leave its oversight role largely without effect. We favor a model closer to banking supervision with a lower threshold. 3rd, financing. If ASMA is to become a direct supervisor, the way it is found, it must be fair. Today, the NCA contribution key rests on political voting rates rather than the actual size of markets. As a result, most member states contribute more than their proportionate share, Slovenia around 7 times more. We have proposed aligning the key with the real size market. Governance and financings are 2 sides of the same coin, and they should advance together. 2 brief points on the newer elements. We welcome the examination of crisis management and resolution framework for market infrastructures. Supervision at union level should go hand in hand with crisis management at the same level. And on the new ESMA intervention tools, we would ask for a narrow scope and robust safeguards with the existing convergence tools drawn open 1st. On the reminder on the package, we support progress on asset management and on TLT as well as closer coordination between authorities. Thank you.”
  Financial regulation
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you for the floor. Like many other EU member states, Slovenia faces a structural shortage of rental housing and high housing prices, which particularly affects students, young people and middle income households when trying to solve these issues. It is of crucial importance to have a stable and long term financing for residential construction, which allows for a predictable increase in supply. It is also important to have targeted legislative measures in Slovenia. In the previous years, we have defined younger adults and young families as a mandatory priority category when allocating public rental housing, thus directly improving their access to housing. It is important that we have comprehensive housing policy to include to improve the accessibility for young families trying to find housing for the first time. This is an important imperative for our government. It is also important to simplify administrative procedures, such as measures to speed up the issuing of building permits and more efficient spatial planning. It is aimed to speed up the preparation and implementation of housing projects and accelerate the activation of land for construction in mobilizing investment. It is essential that public funds act as leverage to mobilize private capital. In 2025, six housing projects were supported under the Resilience and Recovery Plan, and additional funding was also provided under the European Cohesion Policy, which. Allocates almost €56 million to accessible and sustainable public rental housing. An important role is also played by favorable loans through Citi Bank, which is an export and development bank. It links public funds and development finance as well as promotes the involvement of private financial institutions. We also see a great potential in activation of empty apartments in a more efficient use of the existing housing stocks. In addition, we want to strengthen legal certainty in the rental market through a stimulating tax policy for long term rentals. We believe that we need a combination of legislative reforms, efficient administration, long term financing, and a close integration of national and European resources. Thank you.”
  EU policy on urban development
• 2026-06-29 “For organizing this very topical debate. Let me start with congratulations to you and to your team for historical deal on the revival, on the revision of the Social Security Coordination rules. The revised rules are an important step towards fairer labor mobility. We do, however, find that there is some additional scope for simplification, simplification and modernization at a time when there are approximately 13 million unemployed persons in the European Union. It is important to facilitate their cross-border integration into the labour market, strengthening the area's network, ensuring wider population of job vacancies and enhancing information exchange between services would help much match labor demand and supply more effectively across the union. These measures could also reduce the growing dependence of labour markets on workers from third countries. In this context, Slovenia sees merit in exploring mechanisms to better attract also workers already available within the EU labour market. We would be in favour of of clearer rules distinguishing business travel from the posting of workers. Greater flexibility regarding A1 certificate certificate requirements for short term business travel and the mandatory digitalisation of administrative procedures. Electronic verification tools, interoperable information systems and direct access for competent authorities would improve compliance, reduce administrative burdens, and strengthen enforcement. We also see a need to simplify reimbursement procedures for Social Security contributions concerning cross-border workers, and to promote greater consistency in the definitions of employed and self-employed activities across member states. Overall, Slovenia supports a more streamlined, digital and coherent framework that facilitates fair labour mobility, strengthens labour market integration and reduces unnecessary administrative burdens for workers, employers and public authorities alike. We hope that the upcoming Fair Labour Mobility package will contribute to achieving such a framework. Thank you.”
  EU regulation of cross-border and posted workers
• 2026-06-29 “Thank you. Chair. France welcomes the publication of the social package, which is ambitious as well as the first EU anti-poverty strategy. Our progress will rely will rely on the understanding of poverty in all its dimensions. For a long time, poverty was viewed as being degraded, living conditions and so on. But now poverty covers a much wider range of situations. Sometimes they are cumulative and sometimes they are separate. However, these vulnerabilities cannot be ignored. In order to fight poverty in a sustainable fashion, France has launched an in-depth analysis of process in order to look into freelancers, students as well as other fields. We aim to transform our social model, which will give priority to social protection in order to secure the position of people. The analysis of the different sources of poverty is crucial. Since March 2025, with the reform of a. Solidarity systems, France now has requested the filling in of forms every three months for all the users that have had access to a simplified form of forms, and now they can receive their benefits in a more targeted fashion. France welcomes the work on the future recommendation from the council, and also supports the prevention access for housing proposed by the Commission. However, we feel that the recommendation should also focus more on the funding systems in order to guarantee access to housing to the most vulnerable. We look forward to learning more about the fight against homelessness in the recommendation to. Thank you.”
  EU housing policy
• 2026-06-26 “59:54 - 12:00:30): Thank you. So Slovenia, The Netherlands, Hungary. Thank you very much, chair. The methane regulation can significantly affect energy security in the European Union. That is why Slovenia agrees that we need a well thought through approach. We support the document that was prepared by our Czech and Slovak colleagues. Thank you. Thank you, Thomas. Netherlands, Hungary, Malta.”
  EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• 2026-06-26 “29:05 - 10:30:23): Thank you very much. So Slovenia, Italy followed by Hungary. Slovenia, Italy. Thank you. Thank you, minister. I would like to thank Cypriot presidency for its dedicated work on the directive for permitting. And we, as Lovina, recognize the importance of accelerating the development of energy networks and clean energy technologies to enhance the EU energy independence, resilience, and competitiveness of our energy system. We, therefore, support a general approach on permittee directive. And to save time, I would like to address also the the next 10 e regulation. Although Slovenia continues to have reservations regarding the necessity of the mechanism proposed in the article 19, we acknowledge the increased flexibility in the latest proposal. On that basis, we can support general approach and wish the next presidency good work on both things in for the dialogues. Thank you, and we're looking forward for next steps. Thank you. So, Italy followed by Hungary and then Greece. Thank”
  EU policy on permitting for renewable energy projects
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much for giving me the floor. First, I would like to point out that Slovenia is celebrating its statehood day today. That is why we have prepared a small gift for all delegations in order to commemorate our holiday. Now, as far as the legislative proposal on CO2 standards for cars and vans is concerned, we are a transit country. We are a country with a highly dispersed population. That is why Slovenia is strongly committed to adopt measures aimed at decarbonising the transport sector. We would also like to take into account the competitiveness at the same time. This regulation, in our opinion, is crucial to ensure gradual transition towards zero emission mobility and in order to provide long term predictability for investors along the entire value chain. We believe that this revision proposal is in line with the interests of European producers and suppliers. We would like to thank the Cyprus Presidency for all the progress achieved in the last six months, in particular on labelling on the open questions. We believe that in addition to manufacturers and suppliers, we need to take into account the consumers as well in terms of ensuring adequate infrastructure, maintaining purchasing power and ensuring A zero emission vehicles. We propose. We consider that the proposed target of 90% reduction by by 2035 is a pragmatic step that will ensure the protection of industrial competitiveness and consumer interests. However, we must make sure that these mechanisms do not become too complicated or too costly. They must provide a realistic, technologically neutral pathway that would prevent supply chains from moving abroad or causing the loss of jobs. We have to ensure an appropriate implementation conditions and clear targets and deployment. We also have to take into account the purchasing power of the general population, so the prices of electric vehicles and the prices of electricity. Thank you.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• 2026-06-25 “The commissioner, their presidency, their ministers. Slovenia welcomes this opportunity to exchange views on the implementation of the strategy and on the way forward in order to strengthen water resilience in the European Union. Even though Slovenia is considered a country that's rich in water, we are still faced with droughts, floods and increasing pressures on water resources ever more frequently in the recent time. We therefore believe that strengthening water resilience remains an important national priority Here. It is key to ensure cooperation between member states and support at the EU level as well in terms of water efficiency. Our experience shows that long term planning and sustainable management of water resources must be based on reliable data, and that it must be adapted to local conditions when setting water efficiency targets. It is important to ensure enough flexibility to take into account the different the various hydrological, geographical and socio economic characteristics of member States. Digital solutions can improve water management and make decision making easier based on data. Slovenia is already introducing digital twins for water management and is increasingly using satellite data and remote sensing. We expect that the digitalisation digitalisation Action Plan will ensure better connectivity and better data sharing, as well as common standards and exchange of best practices, and that it will ensure adequate support for deployment of digital solutions. We must ensure, however, that these new solutions are proportionate to the expected benefits for end users. We must respect the principle of cost effectiveness in terms of financing. Public funds will be very important for modernizing water infrastructure. We need additional investment investments and access to the relevant European financial instruments and technical support. This is what allows member states to prepare and to implement their ambitious projects for strengthening water resilience. To conclude, I would like to point out that strengthening water resilience remains a shared European responsibility that calls for a long term vision, cooperation and coordinated action at all levels. Thank you.”
  EU policy on water management
• 2026-06-25 “Thank you very much for the floor. Slovenia would like to thank the Cyprus presidency for putting this topic of reach, uh, on the agenda. Thank you to France as well as the initiator. We agreed that a discussion at the level of ministers is necessary. We consider the revision of reach is not really realistic at this point in time, but at the same time, it remains important to ensure predictable, clear and effective legislation that does not create unnecessary burdens for business businesses. That's why we support targeted, specific improvements of reach that will enable implementation throughout the chemical supply chain, while also ensuring a high level of protection of the environment and of human health. A major challenge challenge is the increase of imports from third countries, in particular via online online sales. There's a lot of risk of non-compliance with EU legislation. That's why we need to coordinate and take into account other relevant legislation. We should modernize and simplify the regulation, the regulation in the following manner by Digitalizing harmonizing and automating the safety data sheets by simplifying authorization procedures, in particular for small quantities of substances. By clearly defining data requirements for nanoforms, as already pointed out by France, and by using data better in the context of the one substance, one assessment approach. Avoiding duplication. We do not believe that polymers are a current priority, as this is a very broad area with major implications for the industry. We also believe that we need to focus on the implementation and enforcement enforcement of reach. We need better harmonisation of controls, more and harmonised effective sanctions. Stronger controls on imports. As far as non-legislative measures are concerned, we support the continuation of joint inspection activities within the agency. Better use of customs data for targeted controls, closer cooperation between customs and control authorities, capacity building for competent authorities, including training of inspectors, laboratory infrastructure and analytical methods. Thank you.”
  Chemicals regulation
• 2026-06-25 “Dear Commissioner, dear ministers, dear colleagues, Slovenia welcomes this discussion on the link between nature, economy and competitiveness. Biodiversity loss is not only an environmental problem, it represents a development, an economic and security risk. Ecosystem services reduce risks from floods, from droughts and from soil degradation, and they contribute to a more predictable planning and investment framework. That's why we need to better understand them and better integrate them better integrate the benefits of nature for the economy and society into our decision making processes. An important tool in this regard is the valuation of natural capital using modern data and Analytical tools. That's why we need coordination of EU financial instruments to accelerate investments in nature. Nature restoration and nature based solutions can replace or complement existing approaches, particularly in spatial and infrastructure planning. These solutions are often much more cost effective, and that's why they need to become part and parcel of planning. Slovenia supports the transition to a nature friendly economy. We. Which much must be based on cooperation between nature protection, agriculture, forestry, energy, water management and spatial planning. And that's exactly the approach that we've taken in reconstructing after the terrible floods of 2023. And that includes watercourse management. We would also like to stress that the European and national legal frameworks already provides provide a basis for nature conservation, but implementation is key. That's why nature conservation should be adequately supported by financial instruments and other relevant sources of funding in the future. We also have to take into account member states specificities, including. Natura 2000 sites and the management obligations linked to those. Only a healthy and resilient ecosystem can continue to contribute to social resilience, economic competitiveness, and quality of life. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you for the floor. Slovenia welcomes the Commission's findings and the progress made in the Sustainable Management of Fisheries Resources, which confirms that the Common Fisheries Policy remains the appropriate framework for achieving environmental, economic and also social objectives. The evaluations of the Common Fisheries Policy provide the basis for future reflection on how the future Common Fisheries policy can adapt to a number of major challenges that are emerging, including climate change and rising fuel prices and prices of other inputs. However, we believe that some additional considerations will have to be taken into account in addition to environmental considerations. It is essential to ensure that social and economic considerations are taken into account, especially in the current situation where rising fuel prices are drastically reducing revenues of our fishermen. It is also essential to consider the specificity. Specificity. Specificities of different marine regions, including the Mediterranean and the Adriatic Seas, such as small scale coastal fishing and the close links between fisheries and other activities such as tourism. At the same time, it is also a fact that climate change and its consequences, such as the noticeable warming of the sea and the emergence of invasive alien species are already having a significant impact on fisheries as well as on agriculture.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you. Maria Slovenia is a country with one of the highest brown bear densities in Europe. This represents a sort of of a conservation success, but also an increasing social challenge. The new government and the new leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture now has new stances, because even in Slovenia we see more and more human bear conflicts, attacks, damage to livestock farmers. This has reached new levels because the population hasn't been regulated in the past. We now see too many species of brown bear over 1000 brown bears right now in such a small territory of Slovenia, bears Approach villages. They fight for food, their ever closer to humans. They endanger normal life, normal agriculture. So we support this initiative. Thank you so much.”
  Large Carnivores
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you, Madam Chair. Commissioner Costas, thank you for exhaustive report. Slovenia welcomes the continued efforts to ensure responsible and long term sustainable management of fisheries resources resources, especially in vulnerable marine areas such as the Mediterranean and the Adriatic Sea, where the pressure on ecosystem is particularly pronounced. The progress towards the Sustainable Resources Management target shows consistent implementation of measures. Therefore, we need a balanced approach that equally integrates the environmental, economic as well as social dimension of sustainability, which is in line with international commitments and the objectives of sea management. Such an approach allows for the long term conservation of fish stocks. At the same time, it safeguards the livelihood of coastal communities, since they often rely on traditional and small scale fisheries, especially in the current economic circumstances. Due to increased fuel prices, rising prices and climate change, they change, they are particularly at risk. It is also worth recalling the importance of sustainable aquaculture. Or mariculture, which contributes to food security, reducing pressure on wild fish stocks and the development of coastal communities. Special attention, in our opinion, should be paid to small scale coastal fishing and smaller scale fishing fleets, which have specific operating conditions and play an important role in preserving local identity, food security and cultural heritage. So in this context, Slovenia especially underlines the importance of maintaining the fishing opportunities for small pelagic and demersal species in the northern Adriatic. For Slovenia, Slovenian fisheries, in line with the applicable multiannual management plans within the Gfcm. In this context, it is particularly important to take into account provisions or. Exemptions for for small fleets. Thank you very much.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Whenever measures are, further steps are considered. We must also ensure that we take into account the specific and traditional characteristics of smaller coastal communities, smaller fishing fleets and small scale coastal fishing. Micro and small scale enterprises, as well as the self-employed. It is also necessary to avoid additional disproportionate administrative and financial burdens, both for primary producers and for administrations. Last but not least, the development of mariculture should be stressed and properly encouraged as mariculture production production in Slovenia already exceeds production in sea fishing by three times. At the same time, there is a potential for stagnation in the development of mariculture due, inter alia, to rising food prices and damage from alien and invasive species. All steps towards a future common Fisheries policy should be taken to ensure the conservation and survival and future sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture in the Member States, as food security is an important aspect of security. Also, in the light of global situation, we expect these aspects to be adequately, adequately addressed by the forthcoming EU vision for Fisheries and Aquaculture. Thank you very much.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture · Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2026-06-22 “Thank you, Madam Chair. Distinguished colleagues, thank you for such a warm welcome. And to both colleagues who are with us for the first time as well. I wish you fruitful deliberations and good work. Slovenia wishes to thank the presidency for your work on this dossier so far, and we assess that this proposal reflects the discussions at technical level, and it includes appropriate solutions for us, in particular the decisions to preserve and further develop small scale coastal fishing, aquaculture and processing industry is important. It is important to provide for the financing of fisheries, data collection and control and the transfer of undertakings of businesses in the context of generational renewal in the sector without additional restrictive conditions. Equally so, it is important for Slovenia that the possibility of co-financing the processing and marketing of fishery and aquaculture products is foreseen within the envelope for fisheries policy. At the same time. It is important that within the envelope for fisheries policies, the financing is provided from the viewpoint on negotiations for future fisheries policy. It is important to take into account that the support to Common Agricultural policy is important in the aspect of food safety support for member states and the EU as a whole. We will be constructive and we will participate in further discussions. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• 2026-06-16 “Thank you very much, Marilena. And I congratulate the Cypriot presidency for the agreement on the partial general approaches. Well done. Um, we can support the three legislative acts. This achieved progress is very important in order to maintain the timeline and with the implementation of the new MFF in January of 2028. Having said that, the agreement must not come at the expense of quality and here is one issue which I have already hinted at during the previous discussion the issue of competitiveness and in particular the European Competitiveness Fund, where Slovenia, together with Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary and Hungary submitted a declaration to the minutes in this. We claim that we need further work to mobilise and connect complementary capacities, infrastructures, expertise and innovation ecosystems across all member states, thereby enabling the union to fully harness its collective potential. What are we talking about? We are talking about helping small and medium sized businesses primarily as well as those with niche products and expertise. These are the stakeholders who require additional tools to compete globally, and we will continue to strive and support these companies. Thank you very much.”
  EU industrial funding (mechanism level: EU-pooled vs nationally-financed)
• 2026-06-16 “Thank you very much, Marilena. Thank you for the warm welcome. It's good to be here and I'm looking forward to working with all of you. And the commission, of course, in the month ahead. Um, first of all, allow me to comment on the issues. Uh, the important issues that we are discussing today. Allow me to commend the intense efforts of the Cypriot presidency. We appreciate very much how you have handled the file, uh, and prepare this revised negotiating box. This is a key step in the negotiations, uh, enabling both the timely discussion of the leaders, uh, at the upcoming European Council and also the future work on this important file for Slovenia. The revised negotiating box contributes to a rebalancing of the proposal in some key aspects. Uh, and I can say it's a step in the right direction. Having said that, there are, of course still issues that needs to be addressed. I will mention three elements which remain crucial for us, uh, for the future. Uh, deal. First of all, the issue of the reduction of national envelopes in the PNR compared to the current MFF. The revised nego box contains elements that strive to rebalance the. The Commission. The initial Commission proposal, which we generally welcome. But work on this issue must continue. We believe we must not ignore the fact the treaty based policies are the only ones whose volume is decreasing compared to the current MFF. This is not a question, we believe, between traditional versus modern policy priorities.”
  Size of EU budget
• 2026-06-16 “This is a question of ensuring that we do not lose focus of the key existing policies with EU added value, which already strengthen competitiveness, convergence, economic growth and improve resilience and security, including food security. The second issue, which is important to be followed further on is the issue of competitiveness. We should ensure that efforts to improve competitiveness of the EU do not introduce obstacles for most while benefiting some. Only the single market shows that we all have something to offer and the question is only whether this offer is taken up and will. I will explain a little bit more when we come to the Legislative Act discussion. And the third issue is the issue of the revenue side. They're still crucial. Issues remain open. We must avoid, we believe, designing an MFF, which is both unambitious and also unfair for small and less developed member states. This means that we need to restructure the proposed revenue side so it is less regressive and by no means reintroducing rebates on the NI based own resource, as there is no more justification for them done on these issues. I must say that we are ready to work constructively in the months ahead for an for an MFF, which would, um, develop tools available to compete, uh, for the union to compete globally to strengthen our citizens well-being and reduce disparities among member states. Thank you very much.”
  Cohesion and rural funding · Own EU resources
• “Before I switch to Slovene, thank you. To you and your team. And also to Commissioner for all your efforts that you put in the process, negotiations and etc.. Slovenia supports the target of a 90% net reduction in emissions by 2030. This is a scientifically based target that is consistent with the Paris Agreement, ensuring a fair contribution by the EU to global climate efforts and guiding us towards climate neutrality by 2050. For us, this is not an abstract figure, as Slovenia is warming faster than the European average and is one of the EU countries most affected by climate change. Therefore, enhanced action is in our strategic interest. However, a figure alone is not enough to achieve the target. We need a comprehensive support framework, clear legislation, fair distribution of financial resources, especially ETS revenues, which should remain with the Member states. And of course, a link to the Multiannual Financial Framework. In doing so, it will be necessary to take into account national specificities and the principles of social justice, justice, cost effectiveness and technological neutrality Reality for Slovenia, it's crucial to recognize the challenges and uncertainties arising from the lull UCF sector, which stem from its natural variability and the negative impacts of environmental factors. Let me touch on three key points related to flexibilities. First, international carbon credits.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you very much for the floor. President Slovenia agrees with Portugal that in order to respond appropriately to climate change, emergencies and crises, we need a comprehensive, integrated and holistic approach at the EU level. This approach must include rapid responses, effective risk mitigation measures and support for innovation and investment that will help our farmers to face these challenges. We need to mobilise additional funding, including public funds. We are in favour of greater flexibility when it comes to using different financial resources available in EU policies. Also when implementing CIP strategic plans. This could also be achieved by an ad hoc crisis mechanism that we had already proposed together with Croatia. Within this mechanism, a member state could earmark up to 2% of funding for rapid response to a regional or national crisis situation, thus supplementing the use of the agricultural reserve. We also endorse the call to the Commission to come up with an EU strategy to manage climate risk and crisis.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you. President. Allow me first to thank the Commission for presenting the proposal, which is extremely important. And it partly also touches upon the areas that fall within the competence of agriculture ministers. Slovenia supports any joint efforts to reduce the quantities of food waste. Any wasted food is an indicator of the sustainability of our food systems, and in particularly it is an indicator of our society's attitude towards food resources necessary for its production and the environment. By reducing food waste, we will also deal with objectives in the field of global hunger and climate change. This is why we believe that the approach taken to [00:18:30] set legally binding targets is important in the light of achieving Sustainable Development Goals, as well as objectives set down in the Green Deal and in the Paris Agreement. We welcome the flexibility afforded to Member States when implementing individual measures. These measures need to be adapted to the specific national situations. It is also important to address the issue of food waste along the entire food supply chain chain. We need to point out that data should be based on should be reliable and verified in order to guarantee the representativeness and comparability among member states. [00:19:15] We should also focus on issues related to improving the education and awareness of producers, manufacturers and consumers, as well as issues related to [00:19:30] food labelling and the use by date on food products. By way of an example, allow me to say that in Slovenia, we have adopted a national food waste strategy at the end of 2021. All actors operating along the entire food supply chain have subscribed to a joint statement expressing their interest and support for the objectives, which aim at promoting a respectful, responsible and sustainable approach to food. We also [00:20:00] undertook some activities in schools and kindergartens, as well as other measures dedicated to developing and disseminating examples of best practices, as well as measures related to promoting food donations which are already entitled to a fiscal relief. I should also point out that Slovenia celebrates no Wasted Food Day on the 24th of April, which gives even more prominence to this common challenge. At the end of [00:20:30] September, Slovenia also adopted an action plan for the implementation of of this national strategy, which calls for a closer cooperation between all actors in the food supply chain. Thank you very much.”
  Food waste
• “Madam chair. Maria, thank you for the floor. Commissioner. Ministers, the energy transition is key to lower greenhouse gas emissions and to increase the energy efficiency and resilience of the sector. That is why we need low carbon energies and we need to go to the renewable energy sources. Careful consideration is required regarding smaller fishing communities within these times of crisis, where the energy transition should not lead to the decline or disappearance of small fishing communities. Therefore, we need to think alongside the energy transition requirements, how to adjust legislation in the future. Common fisheries policy when it comes to energy transition to vessels. How to increase the gross tonnage or engine power? Because currently the rules are common, policy doesn't allow that. We also need the common legislation framework. Slovenian fishing fleet consists predominantly of smaller and older vessels. Therefore, two issues are crucial for us sufficient financial resources for the energy transition and appropriate regulatory flexibility, which means that we also need to simplify the rules to implement the The procedures to have new vessels to change the engines, and also to change the vessels for vessels, for fishermen to facilitate investments. We expect to see this in the upcoming EU vision for Fisheries and Aquaculture as regards Italy's call. Also in Slovenia, the fisheries sector is facing an exceptional increase in diesel prices, putting the income of businesses and fishermen at risk. That is why we need measures to implement everything and we support also the fund for Common Agricultural Policy, for emergency funds to have easier absorption of funds and to also facilitate the rules when it comes to state aid. European fishermen should survive, should preserve their activities. This is also important for food and resilience of the entire EU sector. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture · Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Thank you, president, for the floor. I wish to thank the Commission and the presidency for the opportunity to give a first preliminary response to the legislative package. Slovenia supports the objective of the legislative proposal, Especially in reference to small scale coastal fishing, and stresses the importance of ensuring stable and predictable funding to maintain the competitiveness of the sector. At the same time, it is essential to maintain sufficient flexibility to take into account national and regional specificities of the support which has to be effective and targeted. We pay particular attention to promoting solutions for the long term resilience of the sector, the sustainable development and aquaculture, and the preservation of traditional small scale coastal fishing practices in the Mediterranean and small fishing sectors. Slovenia also welcomes the possibility of supporting generational renewal. The energy transition, sustainable processing and marketing of fishery products to strengthen knowledge and training which will contribute to the resilience of coastal communities and long term stability. It is important that cofinancing procedures are clear, transparent transparency in WTO compatible while allowing maximum aid intensity for the small scale coastal fishing sector. Slovenia will support the presidency's activities, and we are going to continue participating in this discussion so that we can ensure flexible development of Slovenian fisheries and aquaculture. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “Thank you. Thank you, President, [00:42:00] for the floor. Colleagues. Good morning on behalf of Slovenia. We've had a long debate on this legislative proposal on Friday in the national parliament, and that discussion was quite similar to the one we're having here today. So an ambitious approach towards the protection of the environment on the one hand and on the other. Fears [00:42:30] about what is happening in the European industry and the trends are not promising. So we are talking about a balance here. How much of additional costs is being incurred by the population and by the industry? And the question is, are we really doing everything in our power to make sure that the European cars are more competitive throughout [00:43:00] the world and not just in Europe? So we had an in-depth debate and we are grateful to you presidency to present to us today a balanced approach. We believe perhaps it's best to take small steps forward and get to the final destination. Thank you very much.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Uh thank you. Minister. Commissioner. Slovenia supports the objectives of the European Ocean Pact. Despite our short coastline, we are deeply connected to the Mediterranean environmentally, economically and strategically. We believe that in order to achieve good environmental status of the sea. It is crucial to consistently implement the ecosystem approach, which is also the basis of the Slovenian plan for the management of the marine Environment. It is important to maintain a balance between the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems and sustainable economic development, in particular in the maritime sector and tourism. We would particularly like to highlight the impacts of climate change on highly sensitive coastal areas. We need integrated coastal zone management and nature based solutions that increase the resilience of coastal cities. I also expect all measures to be based on a source to sea approach. As others have mentioned, only by linking river basin and sea management programmes can we effectively reduce pressures on the marine environment. In the context of the revision of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. We would like to stress the importance of an integrated ecosystem approach. Common methods for monitoring the state of the sea, taking into account regional specificities and better coordination in reporting and planning measures. We also advocate closer integration of fisheries policy and maritime spatial planning. Thank you.”
  Decarbonisation of maritime transport
• “Dear colleagues, madam chair, in Slovenia, we believe that this work program of European Union for Culture is a valuable and effective framework that will strengthen cooperation among member states and enhance the visibility of culture across all relevant EU policy areas. We, therefore, support the continuation of its key priorities in the next work plan, while also advocating for their substantive further development to reflect new realities in cultural and creative sectors. But this has to be closely aligned with our new long term strategic framework embodied in the cultural compass and our joint declaration. That is why we would like to upgrade this substantively to reflect new circumstances, also the geopolitical ones, because we see that the needs keep changing from work conditions to climate change. Allow me to highlight several priority areas that we are facing. First, we must improve the position of artists and cultural workers. Slovenia strongly supports enhanced practices, fight against precarious working conditions, establishing minimum standards of remuneration, strengthening social protection. In Slovenia, we have adopted legislative and strategic measures in these areas. We can also share this. We believe that this common plan for minimal remuneration and good working conditions is good in culture. We should adopt this at the EU level. Second, culture must be recognized as an autonomous pillar of sustainable development. We must ensure equal access to culture participation in cultural life for all citizens regardless of their social or geographical background. Inclusion is not only a cultural objective, it should be our democratic necessity. Third, culture plays a crucial role in strengthening democratic resilience and active citizenship. In this context, safeguarding freedom of artistic expression remains an essential and nonnegotiable commitment. Fourth, Slovenia strongly supports continued efforts at the intersection of culture and health, particularly mental health. We are convinced that stronger cooperation at the yield level can deliver additional tangible results in this field. And fifth, we advocate for stronger financial mechanisms to support sustainable practices in the cultural sector and to protect cultural heritage from the impacts of climate change. In the future, this should be our basic priority. We would like to have good remuneration for artists in change digital environment. Also, when it comes to artificial intelligence, that is why I would like to point out that we would like to cooperate. We know that we need a strong EU work plan. This is important for democratic, resilient, and tangible Europe. Thank you so much.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Madam chair, thank you to friends for putting this issue on the agenda. We believe that we must find a solution as quickly as possible. We [00:14:30] have to ensure that notified bodies can, in a timely manner, assess and certified medical devices. We must focus more on shortages of in vitro medical diagnostic devices, especially we must to make sure that Euromed functions well. Let me also mention the following smaller countries, uh, have a difficult access to the best products and the best prices. [00:15:00] In line with what we've heard. We might, uh, it might make sense to think about, uh, solutions at the EU level. Thank you.”
  Medical devices
• “Kuala. Thank you very much. We'd [00:09:30] like to thank Italy for addressing this topic. We agree that agriculture and forestry are key sectors to ensure food security, to preserve biodiversity and to manage environment in a sustainable way in rural areas. When discussing conclusions on long term vision, we said that these council conclusions are key to maintain a vital countryside. This must be taken into account [00:10:00] when putting together measures from the Green Deal, and the costs need to be shared equitably between different actors. We also agree that we need to pursue a strong and sustainable agricultural policy, through which we need to realise strategic autonomy for the European Union through agriculture and forestry. We need to have sustainable management of forestry and agriculture. This would ensure positive [00:10:30] results for big carnivores and big herbivores. We do know that we need to upgrade the current system, but we will need in-depth discussions on these measures. Last but not least, the new role of farmers should be evaluated through international trade agreements and through EU trade policy. Quality food is still undervalued. Undervalued quality food and safe food is the kind of service that our our farmers can provide.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you. Chair, Commissioner. The new commissioner. Colleagues, thank you very much for the floor. First of all, I would like to congratulate the new Commissioner. Tzitzikostas, I would like to congratulate you on your confirmation. I also wish you a lot of success at the beginning of this new term of the Commission. I'm looking forward to our future cooperation. Now, briefly on the file at hand. Dear chair, I would like to thank you and your entire team for the dedicated work you have put into this last file from the road safety package. Slovenia is a transit country. The general approach that we are discussing today can be endorsed by us. Therefore, the proposal on driving disqualifications is the first step of sanctioning serious infractions, especially road safety related offences throughout the EU. I believe that throughout the implementation of and with the mutual cooperation among member States within this dossier, we will learn a lot and we will improve road safety in the EU. Therefore, we are in favour of the review clause. It gives us an opportunity to improve things and to address potential problems with the implementation. In conclusion, allow me to stress once more that the area of road safety is one of the main priorities of my ministry. We would like to do everything in our power to implement the so-called Vision Zero. Thank you so much. And I also wish a lot of good luck to the future Polish presidency negotiations with the European Parliament. Thank you.”
  Road transport environmental policy
• “Thank you, thank you. Chair. Executive Vice President, colleagues. Ladies and gentlemen, um, simplification is a popular term nowadays, but it is far from politically neutral. It is framed around competitiveness and reducing the burden reduction, and that aligns with the broader economic goals of the European Union today. But this risks shifting the balance of power in the EU social policy making towards pure market logic. And that means steering away from robust social protection. That is the goal of the all the ministers who sit here. In my opinion. Yes, simplification offers opportunities to make EU more agile, but it poses risks. Serious risks. Risks for European social model. So in my view, harmonisation should not be framed as deregulation. Harmonisation should be conducted as harmonisation of national frameworks. The strength of European Union lies in its unity and EU is not. Unified today. We are still, as reports say, 27 national economies, in many cases 27 markets, 27 legislations and yes, 27 social models. And we we are talking how to simplify things in Europe. We should talk about harmonization, not about deregulation of what we have achieved at the European level, especially when we followed, uh, implementation of European pillar of Social rights.”
  EU competences on social policies
• “Thank you. Christina. Uh, Slovenia welcomes the Danish presidency's transparent approach to Horizon Europe negotiations and congratulates it for the progress made. I will highlight the key outstanding issues. First, we need a comprehensive yet efficient process for setting priorities. This is not relevant only for European partnerships, but for the Framework Programme as a whole and its complementarity with the Competitiveness Fund. Member States must be centrally involved from start to finish to ensure that buying during implementation, which will require pooling all available resources also at national levels. At the same time, we must act more efficiently. The Covid crisis showed that fast, partnership based decision making between the Commission and Member states is possible. These experiences, not bureaucracy, should guide us in this context. The interface between Horizon Europe and the Competitiveness Fund should be improved to avoid complexity and efficiency losses at the level of their governance structures. We suggest that both programs independently design and implement activities within their own frameworks. Of course, while jointly addressing shared priorities, their responsibilities along the innovation journey must also be clearer. For us, technology, infrastructures and EU missions are essential for deploying research results and should be supported under the Competitiveness Fund. We also regret that no progress was made on widening despite several member states, including Slovenia, clearly expressing their views. We reiterate that all current widening countries must retain access to capacity building instruments. Finally, Slovenia remains convinced that the two state submission procedure and lump sum approach are the key simplifications that we have to follow. They allow our participants and evaluators to focus on the originality of ideas and reduce unnecessary effort. The two stage process should therefore become the default, although we acknowledge that expectations are necessary. Once again, we congratulate the Danish presidency and stand ready to work with Cypriot presidency to resolve the remaining issues that, uh, make FP ten the best EU R&D programme yet. Thank you.”
  Widening participation in EU research funding (cohesion vs excellence)
• “Thank you. Thank you chairman. We welcome this discussion and we would like to thank you for all the elements that you have included in the discussion so far at the level of the working party. What is important for Slovenia is, um, still the category one, uh, of plants produced with NTS. And here we would like to make sure that the appropriate principles are applied in terms of their risks. We need to define rules and measures in order to prevent possible negative effects of entities, to public health and to the environment, and to other production, uh, practices. We also advocate a case by case approach and a scientific impact assessment or risk assessment rather. We would like to advocate a mandatory labeling of all, uh, such products and the right of consumers to have to make an informed decision. And last but not least, it is really important for all plants of both categories of ncgs are not used in organic farming because we lack appropriate data on their impact on human health and biodiversity. So in this respect, the proposal needs to be further refined. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “11:22 – 16:13:59): Thank you chair and dear colleagues ai seems to be a general purpose technology that could have a transformative effect on our society turning to history we find that technological advancement has always given rise to hope that tech would make work easier including John Maynard Keynes' infamous prediction of fifteen hour work weeks for his grandchildren or concern that it would lead to mass unemployment. While no one's hopes or fears have fully materialized the rate of change in the case of ai may be unprecedented regarding the use of ai to reduce labor market frictions Slovenia has developed a labor market platform that works as a single entry and access point for job seekers employers researchers policymakers and other interested parties and it uses multiple data sources to provide current labor market data demand for skills forecasts on structural imbalances skills development requirements and so on in the short medium and long run one five and fifteen years. And while unemployment including frictional unemployment is already in an all time low in Slovenia we feel that this tool in which econometric analysis also relies on ai and machine learning will help keep it low. Regarding the second question I believe I mentioned during a similar debate in Luxembourg in the autumn of two thousand twenty three that the cause for our concerns is that there is no guarantee or universal economic law that the benefits will pertain to all workers or even a substantial share of workers. In order to support the fair digital transition the social and employment aspects of the semester must be put to the forefront and we believe that the ebsco council should take central role to ensure that priorities such as workers' rights job quality skills development and social protection are fully considered in the process. Thus we see three levels of action one a strong legal framework and the ai act platform work directive and jobs quality act are an example second solid and broad minded general education followed by strong support for lifelong learning offered to all workers without exclusion and third strong collective bargaining to ensure a more uniform distribution of both burdens and benefits of new technologies. Taking a step further worker participation in management and ownership has already provided good results in this regard there is already broad eu level support for employee ownership and we believe that moving further from declarative to material level would be a good course of action thank you”
  EU regulation on worker representation in company decisions · Artificial Intelligence · European Semester (social dimension)
• “Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Distinguished Commissioner, thank you for presenting all the information, for all your endeavours that we need to continue with. We emphasize the necessity of a stable framework and the support to farmers and rural areas in order to strengthen competitiveness and innovativeness of agri food sector. We welcome the measures for simplification and improvement of transparency of the market and the support for sustainable investments in rural areas. We are pleased to note that the Commission is proposing an all encompassing proposals in order to face difficulties at the global market. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you very much for giving me the floor. I would like to thank the Commissioner for all the information you've provided. We agree that the revision of the control system in fisheries is an important step forward towards more sustainable management of marine biological resources in the European Union. We are aware that this is an important contribution to ensure traceability, transparency and the prevention of illegal fishing. During the negotiations process that was not brief. We have alerted to certain burdens related to smaller fishing sectors in in the area of digitalisation. In the initial phase of implementation, we have noticed certain challenges. As colleagues have already stated, we are seeing some issues related to technical equipment and the administrative readiness of fisheries. Slovenia is closely monitoring the implementation of the regulation together with its fishermen and related institutions. We would like to foresee adequate support for implementation, Including technical assistance. Our goal remains ensuring the sustainability of Slovenian fisheries, while also safeguarding its economic and social role in the coastal area.Thank you. Sir.”
  Environmental regulation of fisheries
• “Thank you very much, chair. Allow me just a few words. Firstly, to thank Spain for bringing this issue to the table and then referring to our policy discussion. I would just like to mention that the priority setting and the governance of both programmes, as just mentioned, is clearly the most outstanding issue and challenge for us. And I would just like to emphasize that Slovenia fully supports and is committed to intensifying and deepening the discussion on both the strategic policy setting mechanisms and corresponding governance structures. Thank you very much.”
  EU political integration
• “96% of the fossil fuels our economies and societies need are imported. Second, let me go further. Uh, made in EU. Uh, well, it's also about trade defence instruments In that sense, I would like to see Mark Carney in the room. So building strategic partnerships with the like minded partners across the globe that believe in a rules based global order, uh, and trade rules, um. Let me just conclude with some very specific remarks from our industry, for example, uh, from our chemical industries. Uh, by the way, we are third, uh, in share of industry in GDP and well above the average in energy intensive industries. So all the sentiments across the room are really shared by Slovenia. Uh, however, uh, for example, our chemistry industry emphasises that since low carbon technologies are not yet available at scale for many chemical processes, we should make sure that the upcoming revision of the Its directive would reflect realistic timelines. They also stress that the phasing out of free allowance should be aligned with the actual availability of decarbonisation solutions. The interaction with Cbam must be carefully assessed before major changes are introduced here. Our industry sees many uncertainties, particularly free allowances are withdrawn faster than cbam can effectively protect the EU market. Thank you and sorry for being a bit too long.”
  Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
• “Thank you. Markus. As I promised some year ago, we will. And we're trying to primarily evaluate all activities regarding the the integration and development of capital markets from a common European perspective rather than a subjective, narrow minded national perspective. But nevertheless, of course, we will always pay attention on the specifics of smaller countries with underdeveloped markets. So in this regard, we strongly support strengthening supervisory convergence as a cornerstone cornerstone of deeper, more integrated and globally competitive EU capital markets. However, integration must be designed in a way that delivers real efficiency gains while. Preserving the ability of all member states to develop their capital markets. We support a targeted transfer of supervisory powers to ESMA for entities that are genuinely significant from a cross-border and systemic perspective. This should be based on clear and objective criteria as a guiding principle. The level of centralisation must correspond to the level of risk and cross-border relevance. At the same time, centralisation should not be pursued as an objective in itself. This is particularly relevant in the case of crypto asset service providers. While we recognise the potential benefits of a more centralised model, any transfer of supervisory responsibilities must clearly demonstrate added value in terms of effectiveness, proportionality and cost efficiency. A blanket transfer risks imposing unnecessary burdens and could undermine market development, especially in smaller member states. Without improving supervisory outcomes, a more differentiated and risk based approach is therefore essential on governance. Effective supervision requires meaningful involvement of national competent authorities. Their expertise and proximity to markets are critical and must be adequately reflected in decision making structures. Finally, on financing, we must ensure a fair and balanced distribution of costs. The new framework should not create disproportionate burdens for smaller markets, but rather support the overall objective of a stronger and more inclusive European capital market. Thank you.”
  Financial regulation
• “Madam chair. Maria, thank you for the floor. Commissioner. Ministers, the energy transition is key to lower greenhouse gas emissions and to increase the energy efficiency and resilience of the sector. That is why we need low carbon energies and we need to go to the renewable energy sources. Careful consideration is required regarding smaller fishing communities within these times of crisis, where the energy transition should not lead to the decline or disappearance of small fishing communities. Therefore, we need to think alongside the energy transition requirements, how to adjust legislation in the future. Common fisheries policy when it comes to energy transition to vessels. How to increase the gross tonnage or engine power? Because currently the rules are common, policy doesn't allow that. We also need the common legislation framework. Slovenian fishing fleet consists predominantly of smaller and older vessels. Therefore, two issues are crucial for us sufficient financial resources for the energy transition and appropriate regulatory flexibility, which means that we also need to simplify the rules to implement the The procedures to have new vessels to change the engines, and also to change the vessels for vessels, for fishermen to facilitate investments. We expect to see this in the upcoming EU vision for Fisheries and Aquaculture as regards Italy's call. Also in Slovenia, the fisheries sector is facing an exceptional increase in diesel prices, putting the income of businesses and fishermen at risk. That is why we need measures to implement everything and we support also the fund for Common Agricultural Policy, for emergency funds to have easier absorption of funds and to also facilitate the rules when it comes to state aid. European fishermen should survive, should preserve their activities. This is also important for food and resilience of the entire EU sector. Thank you.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “Thank you very much, Minister. Um, first of all, I would like to also thank the presidency team for their excellent work on this important file. I want to stress that we find the CEF instrument very valuable, both for transport and energy projects. Slovenia has used successfully to finance to co-finance projects in both areas, and we aim to continue this strong and well interconnected energy infrastructure is one of the key pillars of a successful competitive, clean energy transition. It is therefore important that all available funds are used for advancing the core objective of the CEF, namely the development of grids on the transport side. You will know that our main problem was the so-called Illustrative Annex. Despite its nature, it has, however, high political visibility. We are therefore pleased with the inclusion of copper in the annex within the cross-border connection from Venice to Trieste, copper and divaca to Ljubljana on the Mediterranean corridor at the same time. We regret, however, that we were not able to extend the cross-border link from Vienna to Graz and Maribor all the way to Ljubljana. Nevertheless, we remain committed to the ambition of establishing a high speed rail line between Ljubljana and Vienna. This is a priority within the Ten-t corridors, and an important element in the action plan on high speed rail. So we count on the Commission's support in the future. All in all, although not completely satisfied, Slovenia supports the adoption of the partial general approach. Thank you.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you for the floor. Madam president, Slovenia recognizes just how important it is to protect health and environment and how important it is to guarantee the transition into circular economy. That's why we fully support the targets from the chemical strategy for sustainability. This strategy will still maintain its importance in achieving targets from the Green Deal. However, we think that some goals could be reached by a more balanced approach that could enable us to fulfil all of these measures. In practice, these measures must be adapted to global challenges, to geopolitical changes, to the lack of key raw materials and to significantly fiercer competition at global markets. The final goal of this approach is to protect the health of people and of the environment. This is the key guiding principle in defining sustainable and long term solutions. Companies, SMEs in particular, are facing numerous challenges when adapting to new demands and to modified relationships within supply chains. Therefore, it is of crucial importance that we adequately support them. The measures from this strategy are suitable for addressing all of these challenges. However, if we don't help companies, these measures will not be effective in enhancing the sustainable development of the sector. Slovenia welcomes all of the processes of simplification of the European chemicals legislation. However, what we are noticing is that the legislation is becoming ever more extensive and complex. That's why we hope that the revision of the Reach regulation will include the simplification of procedures and the loosening of certain requests and limitations. This will simplify its implementation in practice as well. We are very glad that you are introducing the principle of one substance, one assessment. This will enable us to comprehensively deal with chemicals. We also believe that all actors at the EU market should have a level playing field. We have to protect the environment, human health and the competitiveness of the industry within the EU. We do realise that the full compliance with legislation is probably not within reach. Therefore, the problem of non-compliant substances and products be dealt with. The combination of different approaches and solutions. We also believe that we have to strengthen the capacities of the European Chemicals Agency. We have to make sure that member states cooperate among themselves. Slovenia will continue endorsing all of the measures intended for the fulfillment of the goals in this strategy. Thank you.”
  Chemicals regulation
• “It is absolutely important and necessary that we reduce the dependence of the EU agriculture and that we devise an effective policy for sustainable agricultural practices, and that we devise a good agricultural sector. We welcome the initiatives that are being prepared. We are especially happy to see a fertiliser action plan and a strategy for a sustainable agriculture. These two points and the protein strategy are key for a long term sustainability of our agriculture. We also support the announced revision of the legislation for animal welfare, especially the prohibition of, uh, of fostering in cages which we have prevented in Slovenia already. We see an added value in food as well. And the revision of the public procurement. We believe that this will strengthen value chains. We give special attention to the risk management for farmers and in the solution seeking of solutions for farmers and the schemes for insurance in agriculture. All these solutions will have to be enabled in the future cap post 2027. We need a stable, simple, yet sufficiently flexible legal framework for the future cap, which will have adequate funding and will enable the continued development of a sustainable, competitive and a resilient agri food sector. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Dear colleagues, thank you very much for the discussion. Slovenia supports the partial general approach to the Agora EU. I would like to sincerely thank the Cyprus presidency for its inclusive and constructive collaboration throughout the preparation and also to all the member states for the discussion. We particularly appreciate that the negotiations are in the final phase were following a European spirit and also were conducted in respect of cultural and linguistic diversity, which is for us as smaller states, particularly important. I would also like to welcome the inclusion of the principle of a level playing field in the media plus strand as well as the explicit recognition of protected groups and also the fights against crimes within the surf plus strand. These elements represent important added value. They reflect a shared commitment to fundamental rights and inclusiveness. Also, I would still like to stress out the importance of our in-depth expert level discussion and these financial aspects, these are all connected with the content and also with the implementation of the programs. They have to be in the expert area be conducted and in our case also in the Cultural Affairs Committee. We will be insist on that in Slovenia. A greater flexibility of the program should be carefully balanced with the principles of predictability, transparency and they all remain essential for its effective delivery. That's why we need the support of financial means, which enable all this. We are looking forward to an expert discussion. And, of course, in Slovenia, we'll do the utmost to have a constructive contribution. Thank you very much.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you for giving me the floor. In principle, we do support the objective of this legislative proposal, but we believe, as many others, that these measures will not be sufficient to strengthen the competitiveness of European industry in the long term. The key factor which negatively impacts competitiveness this is not addressed in this proposal are high energy prices. Affordable and reliable energy supply remains a prerequisite for keeping industrial production in the EU, especially for energy intensive sectors, in terms of public procurement measures and public support schemes. We would like to mention the risk of increased administrative burdens, especially because of the demanding procedure of verification of origin, the ownership of third country bidders and because of compliance with low carbon Urban criteria. The proposal also contains certain ambiguity ambiguities regarding evidence and verification procedures. Harmonized tools are not yet fully in place at EU level, but they would be necessary in order to ensure effective implementation of these requirements. We believe that the measures should be proportionate, technology neutral, easy to implement and in line with the future revision of EU rules on public procurement. The difference in administrative capacities of Member States should also be taken into account and the readiness of the market. The risk does exist that in certain sectors, the market is not mature enough yet to fulfill the proposed criteria, and this could lead to limiting competition, higher prices and to unsuccessful procurement procedures, because there simply won't be enough bidders who would meet the origin or low carbon requirements.”
  "Buy European" provisions
• “Thank you, chair. Slovenia welcomes the president's strong commitment to advancing this important initiative. We appreciate the structured and ambitious pace the presidency has set. Ten working party meetings in three months is a serious commitment, and we welcome the thematic organization. So dedicating specific sessions to asset management, DLT trading and post trading as it allows for a more focused and productive exchange. We also support the goal of presenting tangible progress to the June Ecofin. That said, we wish to note that the pace should not come at the expense of quality. Some of the proposals, particularly on supervisory architecture and the role of ESMA, merit careful deliberation. We are confident the presidency shares this view and we look forward to a process that is both ambitious and thorough. On key reforms and areas requiring attention. On the question of which reforms are most effective for mobilising long term savings? For Slovenia, the measures aimed at reducing cross-border barriers for investment funds and improving conditions for retail investors are particularly promising. Making it easier for savers to access a broader range of investment products across the single market is, in our view, one of the most direct levers available. We also welcome the modernisation of the DLT pilot regime, broadening the scope of eligible entities and instruments, raising the thresholds and removing the automatic lapse of authorisations. These are practical, well calibrated changes that should encourage market participants to actually use the regime. Supporting innovation in market infrastructure is important, and this package takes a meaningful step in that direction. As for areas requiring further clarification, we would appreciate a clearer justification for extending direct asthma supervision to all crypto asset service providers, regardless of size or actual cross-border relevance.”
  EU supervisory architecture for crypto-asset service providers (CASPs)
• “45:06 – 14:49:24): Many thanks, Benjamin. Now, Neva, Slovenia, then Latvia and Belgium. Thank you, Madam Chair, and Slovenia thanks the presidency and the commission for this very timely discussion on the role of the MFF in strengthening the functioning of the single market. I agree with the first points from my predecessor when we say removing barriers to fully functional internal single market can unlock its full potentials and growth and the way competitiveness and the new competitiveness orientated MFF can play a significant role in this. But I add, if done correctly, I believe this can be achieved, by following the 3 principles. First, I believe there is a common understanding that most, if not all, policies contribute to competitiveness of the EU and the functioning of the single market. This is true also and specifically for treaty based policies as cohesion and common agriculture policy now merged in the national and regional partnership plans. Now the combination of the reforms and investment guided through the policy reference framework and horizontal conditionalities will have a key role to play in deepening the single market. In doing so, principles related to programming and implementation of programs in shared management have to be respective. Reforms and investments have to be balanced and the design of NRPP, member states to decide how to reflect on the recommendations from the policy reference framework. Additionally to this, adequate funding for the NRPP must be provided, which means an increase in the national allocation of NRPP with a particular focus of member states whose GNI per capita is still below 90% of the EU average. And here, convergence must be achieved, as this is the only way to contribute to a level playing field. Secondly, to prevent an excessive concentration of funding, again, under the principles of EU fairness, resources must be allocated according to clear criteria and with equal access for all member states. For the European Competitiveness Fund to effectively contribute to deepening the single market, we believe it is crucial to ensure that it fosters cooperation across the entire EU, increases cross border integration and contributes to strengthening the competitiveness of the EU as a whole. And this is why Slovenia remains a strong proponent of a pan European approach for the new fund. These issues are of significant importance for Slovenia, but also the remaining member states that endorse the joint declaration on the multi annual financial framework, presented by Romanian colleague. The declaration calls for strengthening member state allocations for the CAP and cohesion policy, ensuring effective and inclusive access to the European fund for competitiveness across the entire union and phasing out rebates. And thirdly, robust protection of the single market against non compliant products, fraud and unfair practices, we believe, is also essential here. The single market and customs program is a key tool for future proofing administrations and practices to adjust to changing trade patterns and should therefore be sufficiently funded. For Slovenia, it is crucial in order to ensure a robust protection at the external borders that we need a well equipped and capable customs authorities. The proposed reduction of the collection costs, meaning that the funds the member states keep from collected customs revenue from 25 to 10, runs counter to those objective and threatens the functionality of customs system in member states. Thank you very much. Thank you. We continue with Archim's Latvia and then Belgium and Austria.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation · EU industrial funding (mechanism level: EU-pooled vs nationally-financed)
• “Thank you very much. Well, we also agree that basic values behind global environmental governance are currently being challenged. And besides multilateralism, this is also a rule based order. Science based policy making and solidarity. And even Unep rules created with positive intention are being taken hostage by countries who want to block ambition to solve serious problems. This discussion is therefore urgent and timely. It's now even more important that the EU stays united and speaks with one voice. We must furthermore continue with an open dialogue with everyone with a particular focus on outreach, we should listen as well with non-state actors, NGOs, scientists, local communities. And outreach is especially important in the preparation of the Resumed Inc. five session. For us, there is a bottom line. We don't want any kind of agreement, but one that can make meaningful impact in the upstream, at least in time. In case a sufficient final agreement of all parties is not within reach. We feel we need to consider a backup plan, building on the common language with the new 100 plus or the coalition of the willing might be instrumental as such a plan B. And finally, very important for all multilateral processes are also science based science policy working groups. This year, it's therefore important to finalize the Science Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution Prevention in order to establish science policy panels on all three dimensions of the planetary crisis, that being IPCC, Ipbes, International Resource Panel and the new Panel on Pollution. Thank you.”
  EU position at multilateral environmental negotiations
• “Thank you very much, chair chairman, for giving me the floor. We too welcome the object objectives of DNA, in particular, the strengthening of connectivity, competitiveness, and the functioning of the internal market for electronic communications. We would nonetheless like to highlight 3 areas where we will have to ensure an adequate balance between European objectives and member states competence. Firstly, we support simplifying procedures, But, with regard to the authorization regime and the proposed single passport, we think that we should maintain the current general authorization regime because the mechanism that is now proposed could cause a burden for national regulators. Secondly, radio spectrum and numbering resources must remain member state competence as this is a limited resource. This also extends to defining remuneration fees and the conditions for their use. Thirdly, with regard to the universal service, member states must keep their freedom to choose between financing it from the national budget or from the compensation fund. Finally, we would like to point out that the 6 month deadline for the application of the regulation is too short because we will have to adjust national legislation, so we will have to extend it to somewhere between 18 and 24 months. Thank you. Thank you all for your comments. Would the commission like to react to these interventions before, I conclude?”
  EU telecom regulation: consolidation vs competition (Digital Networks Act / DNA)
• “Thank you very much, chair. Allow me just a few words. Firstly, to thank Spain for bringing this issue to the table and then referring to our policy discussion. I would just like to mention that the priority setting and the governance of both programmes, as just mentioned, is clearly the most outstanding issue and challenge for us. And I would just like to emphasize that Slovenia fully supports and is committed to intensifying and deepening the discussion on both the strategic policy setting mechanisms and corresponding governance structures. Thank you very much.”
  EU political integration
• “Thank you for the floor. Slovenia would like to thank the Commission for devoting attention to small scale coastal fishing. Thank you also for the dialogue and information provided. We believe that attention should be also paid to small scale fishing in the light of the current situation. There are rising fuel prices and the situation in the Mediterranean is worse and worse. We must bear in mind that in some member states, such as Slovenia, small scale coastal fishing accounts for the majority of the fishing sector, which is more than 90% in Slovenia. This represents an important component of the coastal economy and the value chain, including, for example, tourism. So the latter means that solutions to support small scale coastal fishing should be taken into account. The vast majority in some countries or vessels are dedicated to small scale coastal fishing in particular. We should not impose additional administrative or financial burdens. We should not require to draw additional documents for member states that already now have 90% of small scale coastal fishing vessels. Thank you very much.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
• “Thank you for giving me the floor. Slovenia welcomes the proposal for a CEF regulation for the period of 2028 to 2034, because it remains a key instrument for financing infrastructure projects of common interest in the fields of transport and energy. We also welcome the increase in the overall budget of the programme and its ambition to complete the Ten-t network. I agree that this is key if we want to be successful. In principle, we believe that the presidency has effectively addressed the key concerns of the Member States in the text of the regulation, and we hope that the agreement of the Multiannual Financial Framework will take due account of the needs of transport and energy. The more complex part of the negotiations for us remains an annex with examples of cross-border dimensions, which has high political visibility. I would like to thank the presidency for coordinating the compromise in this part as well. But I'd like to reiterate that Slovenia remains committed to the ambition of establishing establishing a high speed railway line between Ljubljana, Maribor and Vienna. This is our number one priority. It's a priority within the ten-t corridors and an important element in the communication on high speed rail. So we count on your support in the future. Thank you.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “The chair. Vice president of the Commission. Colleagues. The first debate about the European Competitiveness Fund is important. So let me say a couple of things. It is clear that we will need to combine public and private funds, but we shouldn't forget that at this moment we're in a relatively bad position. We are not as good as we were about five years ago when the last commission started working, or compared to the year 2000. We are much worse off right now. Why is this important? Expecting that with less public money. Given compared to our competitors such as China and the USA, we cannot compete with them in this way. Secondly, we are all aware of where we are because of poor development of digital tools. We were in talks with the USA and it was problematic because we are suffering because of the foreign monopoles. So what we need now is digital autonomy. But when you look at the proposal of the budget, this is only under the second point. Are are we willing to give up our sovereignty? Moving on. For Slovenia, it's very important that we take into account excellency, but also excellency of mid-sized companies. All Member States agree that Excellency is important. But some countries have a lot of mid-sized enterprises. We don't have multinationals or very big enterprises. So this is what we will monitor closely in Slovenia. And to conclude, let me say that this path is right. It's right that we are talking about competitiveness, but we are here for the citizens of the EU and they deserve a better life, but they will not achieve this if we don't make greater steps in this field. Thank you.”
  "Buy European" provisions
• “96% of the fossil fuels our economies and societies need are imported. Second, let me go further. Uh, made in EU. Uh, well, it's also about trade defence instruments In that sense, I would like to see Mark Carney in the room. So building strategic partnerships with the like minded partners across the globe that believe in a rules based global order, uh, and trade rules, um. Let me just conclude with some very specific remarks from our industry, for example, uh, from our chemical industries. Uh, by the way, we are third, uh, in share of industry in GDP and well above the average in energy intensive industries. So all the sentiments across the room are really shared by Slovenia. Uh, however, uh, for example, our chemistry industry emphasises that since low carbon technologies are not yet available at scale for many chemical processes, we should make sure that the upcoming revision of the Its directive would reflect realistic timelines. They also stress that the phasing out of free allowance should be aligned with the actual availability of decarbonisation solutions. The interaction with Cbam must be carefully assessed before major changes are introduced here. Our industry sees many uncertainties, particularly free allowances are withdrawn faster than cbam can effectively protect the EU market. Thank you and sorry for being a bit too long.”
  Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
• “As regards diversification of protein sources, uh, what is key is, uh, diversification. So as regards diversification within the strategic plan, Slovenia encourages production of plant based proteins, particularly legumes, and this contributes to strengthening food self-sufficiency and promoting the sustainable use of agricultural land. We provide support through the following measures. Production link payments for protein crops. Environmental and climate measures. Encouraging crop rotation, the promotion of aquaculture as a complementary farm activity, and development of new knowledge and advisory services. Our focus is on small and medium sized farms and short food supply chains. We consider our support measures effective as the area under protein crops continues to grow. However, this success also leads to a reduction in support per hectare, since the 2% envelope cap limits higher payment levels. Concerning the second question, Slovenia supports the development of an ambitious but realistic European protein strategy, which goes beyond a narrow focus on domestic production. So we are to achieve the union's strategic autonomy objectives. We propose the following strategic directions. More effective use of Cap instruments than policy coherence than a. Intensify the investments. Improvements in technology. Uh, as regards the production of plant based products, then efficient, uh, transfer of knowledge, uh, which is essential then support clear labeling of origin and production methods, enabling customers to make informed choices and increasing demand for sustainably produced goods. Cross-sectoral integration ensure links with industrial policy, smart specialisation strategies and the inclusion of fisheries and aquaculture. Slovenia believes that diversifying protein sources offers a valuable opportunity to transfer the European food system. Thank you.”
  Plant-based diet
• “And that is how culture is actually an investment for future. And I believe that this program should stay autonomous and adequately funded. Now, on content priorities in the future programme here, I would like to highlight, uh, that the quality of content is of utmost importance. We believe that creative and sectors should become part and parcels of programs developed in other sectors. There is research that shows that culture actually contributes to well-being, uh, of general population. We believe uh, that uh, that that transparency, uh, of programs is very important as well. Visibility is also important, like, uh, the program Pillar Media, uh, which is very visible. The program pillar culture should be as visible as that as well. Uh, now, priorities of cultural compass should be clear. The question you posed about, uh, the political priorities and culture compass. Now, let me answer that question. Culture is the main pillar of our resilience and international relations. Resilience of cultural sectors, uh, means better working conditions for artists. Culture of first a room for discussion and dialogue. That is why appropriate financing is very important. International. International international relations are the prerequisite of cultural development. That is why we have to cooperate closely more closely with Unesco and Council of Europe. The Compass should promote cooperation of all with audiovisual UN houses. Long term cooperation is needs to be guaranteed and this needs to be cross-cutting. We have to be daring and have strategic vision. We are investing in the future. Culture is showing and Europe is flourishing. Thank you.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Dear Minister, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues. Today it is the first time I participate at this Council. So I would really like to thank you, the Polish, the Polish Presidency for the document that is of excellent quality. We live in turbulent times that test our ways of working and culture is what shows us the way forward. It highlights our values. It shows that we have many ways to address the issues and problems we face. Europe is actually the continent that supports culture, and this is unprecedented. Nowhere else is that so. The Creative Europe is a program that offers great opportunities for creative sector. It strengthens our fabric of life. I would like to thank you, dear Commissioner, for attending the opening of the European Capital of Culture in Nova Gorica and for attending the ministerial meeting on Western Balkans, you highlighted the importance of culture. Actually, a strategic document is needed about culture. Culture is needed for long term resilience of, uh, of Europe. I believe that the instrument that is going to support us in future is the Creative Europe programme. This is the programme that is very important for Member states and also in those states that would like to become members of European Union. This is a program that offers these candidate countries the first touch, the first contact with Europe. It highlights the importance of culture, culture, European culture in their local communities. Uh, local creators, uh, have uh, get in touch with European institutions. The programs that the institutions lead, uh, become present in their territories.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you. Chair. Dear colleagues, Mr. Draghi's report on the future of European competitiveness is indeed very timely. Slovenia welcomes the report as it places energy and decarbonisation at the forefront of our discussions on boosting the competitiveness of European economy. It also adequately addresses some key challenges and areas in need of improvements and further action. We also appreciate the in-depth analysis, which represents a solid and credible basis for this report. We are pleased to see that the recommendations drafted by Mr. Draghi call for the continuation of work related to the ambitious green transition policies. And it also identifies measures necessary to address certain gaps in current energy policies. In principle, Slovenia agrees with the evaluations and recommendations in this report, and I would particularly like to draw your attention to the following four points. We support further considerations regarding a more consistent and coordinated development of grids, including by strengthening cross-border electricity and gas interconnections. I am convinced that in the next few years, together with our operators, we will be able to find the appropriate improvements, thus strengthening our energy union. But I think we can make a step further. A common European market also requires common control measures. As I said on several occasions, it is necessary to remove the unnecessary administrative obstacles when it comes to permitting procedures for renewable energy resources. And I think that we all still have some work to do, both when it comes to national legislations and procedures, as well as at the commission level. Coordination between policies is of utmost importance. Slovenia also welcomes the fact that the report focuses on technology neutral approach for the green transition policy, thus also recognising the important role of nuclear energy and its developments. Last but not least, we will have to boost investments, investments into digitalisation and innovation. Draghi's report clearly illustrates that the EU is very much lagging behind in this respect when it comes to the possibilities for financing our investment needs. Slovenia supports particularly those measures aimed at releasing the EU investment potential, despite the fact that we are still counting on EU funds, we understand that the majority of funding will have to be provided by member states alone. Of course, in cooperation with the private sector in this area, Slovenia has a great deal of positive experience. We manage to use several support schemes in order to ensure a constant growth of renewable share in Slovenia. We need to at least maintain this trend, and that's why I expect further discussions regarding the modalities of financing and state aid rules. The system ought to be clear and predictable in order to achieve results. Thank you very much.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Also, we are concerned that the available um will available funding will not be sufficient to have for enumeration and protective practices. As regards the second question, we think that the Commission needs to take care that, um, This is all common policies which will ensure these have at least 4,540% coverage of the level of the National Strategic Plan for partnership. Also, in considering agriculture's contribution to climate change mitigation, we need to consider the limitations of agriculture, which arise from the nature of biological processes. Finally, allow me that I would like to thank Austria for the presentation of the common document. We share many flexibility. We share the same opinion with many other Member States, also with the for the national and for regional partnerships that they are, that they are included into the regulation of the cap. And we are not included in the transitional period. We would see that it would be important that the presidency conducts this analysis. We need to continue with the strong agricultural policy, which is a firm pillar for agricultural policy, to support local communities and to preserve natural resources. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you for the floor. Slovenia would like to thank the presidency for presenting this proposal. We welcome the Belgian presidency's intention [00:54:30] to deal with this proposal, primarily under the auspices of the Agri Fish Council. It is crucial that experts on forestry be included in these discussions, as the obligations stemming from the proposal pertain to the forestry sector. At the same time, forestry experts are best placed to implement or continue to implement forestry monitoring activities that are very much under way already. This proposal is very important. As such, it is still under scrutiny by our experts, [00:55:00] especially to assess the added value in terms of knowledge and know how, and to assess the additional financial and administrative burdens. My comments today will therefore not be final. Firstly, Slovenia must point out that forestry is an exclusive national competence.Second, Slovenia would like to stress that the added value of a legally binding act is questionable given that voluntary monitoring and reporting systems in member states and in international organisations already exist. These also allow for coordination in defining indicators to ensure comparability, and the European Commission can also provide comments and guidance in these discussions. It is essential that [00:00:30] new obligations do not lead to additional financial and administrative burdens. Member States must maintain their flexibility in implementing these activities. Third. We will need to address several other questions in our discussions, including the type and range of data to collect compliance and coexistence with the existing national systems. Furthermore, the legislation on monitoring must [00:01:00] be coherent with other EU regulations. And last but not least, Slovenia has a long tradition of collecting data forest related data. These guide us in planning and development activities for forests to fulfil all their functions, and in parallel parallel we also provide for forest monitoring. Thank you.”
  Management of EU forests
• “Thank you. As a green and sustainable country, Slovenia welcomes the initiative put forward by Sweden and we, of course, advocate the improvement of animal welfare. We firmly believe that high standards in this area are key, not just because we have a moral responsibility, but because they build the fundamentals of our future agriculture and food system. So we will continue to support all initiatives that will aim at improving the conditions for animals. In addition, in particular the ban on animal cages, improved protection during transportation and clear and unified standards of welfare are key steps that are expected also by our citizens. Citizens who want to have a more just and sustainable food system. And we would like to stress that the same standards of animal welfare must be applied also for all imported products, because we want to have a level playing field for our producers, and we want to prevent the import of food that does not take into account our standards. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers · Import of agri-food products in the EU
• “Thank you very much. President and I too would like to thank Luxembourg for a very kind gesture. The proposals on simplification, uh, represent, uh, an important step to more practical and farmer friendly cap without lowering the environmental ambitions of our agricultural policy. However, the technical discussions now underway have shown that several matters need to be clarified, even those that did not sign the joint letter. We agree with those member states who call for the debate to take place in the Agri Fish Council formation on the proposal by the Commission. As such, we welcome the simplifications for small and organic farmers. The faster crisis response measures the fact that we are doing away with performance clearance, and that we are simplifying the process of amending SAP strategic plans. We also welcome additional flexibility for certain types of conditionality. As to any other topics to include in the Commission's proposal. We regret that the Commission did not include social and conditionality. The experience in the first year of implementation showed that there are certain issues we need to address ASAP. Otherwise we risk sanctions for Member States. We therefore believe that this package should be completed in the in that part. Or perhaps these matters should be discussed in the future. Cap. Then there is the question of establishing a single national authority for Cap data management and interoperable interoperability. This idea raises many questions. So this should be voluntary for Member states and introduced only as of the next programming period. Slovenia welcomes the possibility to use payments per beehive. However, we believe that these measures should also be allowed in the framework of the beekeeping envelope and we welcome the idea to include EU doctor into the simplification package. Thank you.”
  Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
• “Voila. Thank you very much, chairman. Thank you to Austria for putting this point on the agenda. As regards cell based meat production, we agree with Austria that a thorough impact assessment must be made of such products and how they affect traditional methods of [00:19:30] farming and how they affect the environment. If a mass production could follow the same as for GMOs, and DNT applies compulsory labeling so that consumers can make an informed choice. Thank you.”
  EU policy on lab-grown meat
• “Thank you very much. Of course, the big transformation of global economy, probably the biggest one in human history. We've already, uh, entered uh, is also an opportunity to not only, uh, make [00:26:30] the green digital transition work, but also to, uh, add an ethical component to this, uh, transformation and transition. And with this regulation, we are doing so to remove the stain, uh, that, uh, lies also on our shoulders and remove the products that are result of forced labor from our [00:27:00] market, effectively contributing to also the removing of forced labor as means of production in the world. Um, as we see in in the discussion, we all fear that the, uh, that we might not have the most effective tools in hand. I would like to support the commission, uh, readiness, uh, to introduce the [00:27:30] tools, especially, uh, digital databases, uh, and platforms that will help especially small and medium enterprises, uh, to inform themselves about the products they sell on the internal market. We have to understand that European market is the most effective tool we have in order to achieve the, uh, very, uh, righteous goals of this proposal. [00:28:00] Uh, I have to mention the definition. We fully understand that, uh, why, uh, and the logic of the introducing the definition of the International Labor Organization. However, if as long as our, uh, enforcement authorities are concerned, they say, uh, the definition might be too vague for the purpose. That's why we would like to support, uh, larger, stronger role [00:28:30] of the European Commission in this task. Uh, thank you very much.”
  EU policy on labour exploitation in global supply chains
• “Thank you, president. I will be brief. Slovenia has a long standing tradition of cohabitation with [00:27:00] large carnivores, especially with the brown bear population. We therefore see our approach to managing these populations as an example of good practice. In 2024, we estimate the brown bear population at about 1000 individuals. The results of genetic monitoring of the brown bear population are due for this autumn. To manage large carnivores populations, we must also ensure [00:27:30] international coordination and cooperation, as well as have a good understanding of the condition of the population. What is also key is to get our societies on board, and this can only be achieved if we build trust among different stakeholders and ensure intensive consultations. In this context, we support the idea to update the guidance document on strict protection. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• “Thank you. [00:16:30] Chair, Slovenia. I would like to thank Austria for addressing this particular issue. We agree that we are ahead of important challenges and that our agricultural sector and farmers will have to face these challenges. In this respect. We would particularly like to subscribe to the following messages of the Austrian document. Firstly, in relation to the imports from Ukraine, we agree that there is a need to strengthen our activities in order to strengthen to reinforce [00:17:00] the internal market, particularly when it comes to improving the functioning of solidarity lanes. And secondly, we need to strike a balance between climate targets and food security. When it comes to this second aspect, we would like to increase the potential of agricultural lands, thus allowing our agriculture to fulfil its primary role on on the basis of principles underpinning all three pillars of sustainability. We believe that within the strategic dialogue announced [00:17:30] by the Commission, there will be a good chance of doing exactly that. Thank you.”
  Agricultural trade: Ukraine imports
• “Thank you so much. Thanks to the Polish delegation. Also in Slovenia, we agree that there is still room for improvement to further increase usability of DC in guiding policies and actions that drive digital transformation. For example, we support the proposal to include cybersecurity in DC with a separate and [00:06:00] dedicated indicator. We also want to point out the need for compatibility with already existing international indices. We believe that the measurement methodology should be designed to monitor development objectives set like the digital decade objectives. On the other side, there are questions such as how many different social networks or media are used by citizens. We believe that this does not exactly show the level of digital [00:06:30] sophistication of a member state. If only three are not for different social media are used. So we support we fully support further discussions on this topic. Thank you.”
  Scope of EU cybersecurity obligations
• “Thank you very much. Dear Lars. Dear Commissioner, dear colleagues. First, let me also thank the Danish presidency for its tireless work on this challenging file. Slovenia supports a 90% net reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. This is science based, it's Paris aligned, and it's a sensible milestone on the path to climate neutrality. For us, this is not an abstract number. Slovenia is warming faster than the EU average and already faces disproportionate, disproportionate climate damages. Through them, we are being reminded that stronger action is our existential and strategic interest. But a target alone is not enough. We need a robust enabling framework, clear and coherent legislation, and a fair allocation of financing, especially retaining ETS revenues in member states. We also need to uphold technological neutrality and social justice alongside national specificities. The European Council conclusions reflect, reflect on our concerns and the concerns of of others, and they give us a clear mandate to move forward with with the ECR on international carbon credits, guided by the European Scientific Advisory Council, as well as well as our own National Climate Council. We see them as a safety valve and not a substitute for domestic domestic reductions. Given given limited affordability and high quality supply before 2035, we appeal for their use to be in to be to start in 2036 and be appropriately capped.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you very much. Chairman. Commissioner, allow me to wish you all the best on behalf of the Slovene delegation and a lot of success in carrying out the priorities in your mandate. And you can count on Slovenia being constructive there. We would like to thank the presidency for the report that we have received. This report correctly summarizes the work that we've done so far and the progress that we have achieved. These two proposals are highly technical, so it is extremely important that we deal with them thoroughly and in detail. One of the main issues that we still have to deal with is the control issue. We would like to maintain the current system if possible, because this would allow us not to introduce administrative and financial burdens. And it is also important that certain issues be solved at national levels before taking into account local and national specificities. This is particularly true for forests propagating material as far as plant propagating material is concerned. Some suggested changes should be fine tuned and certain limitations should, in our opinion, be limited even further. Um, in order to reach the goal, which is the harmonization of rules. And in addition, we would like um, to see excluded from this um, verification system, um, plant and uh, fruits and vegetables. But you can count on our constructive cooperation.”
  Sustainable use of seeds in EU policy
• “Thank you very much, Slovakia. Slovenia would like to thank the Commissioner for presenting the most important elements of the vision. It is important that as part of the vision, as a strategic sector, we take account of agriculture as a strategic sector and also the role of farmers in society. And we also agree that farm farming and food systems must be able to operate within the limits that we can afford, and it's vital that we have a focus on integrated and sustainable development. But it must also be flexible in order to ensure that countries are able to take their own decisions. And with that in mind, we favour a simple and more stable environment which is easier easier to calculate, and it's vital that we ensure that agricultural products on the market are better priced and that production is better rewarded. But we also need to provide better access to local food, and consumers also need to be better informed, as do the public at large. They need better information about food and, as a matter of priority, climate change, the loss of young people in farming, those are very important areas, and it's really important, as we see it, that agricultural areas can be protected. Animal welfare is very important as our other objectives in order for us to be able to achieve that. It's important that farmers are properly remunerated in order for them to be able to play those roles and take on those tasks, and we won't be able to achieve those objectives if we don't have the appropriate financial framework. The Cap must have sufficient funding earmarked in order to foster the development of rural areas. And support to farmers must be preserved. Thank you very much.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you very much. Allow me to say that Slovenia attaches great importance to the establishment of a safe environment for research and the international cooperation thereof. In our view, we should be particularly vigilant when knowledge with the potential for military use is also being created. In these cases it is necessary to properly identify and manage the risks of international research collaborations. As Slovenia has continuously expressed, the risks of such unwanted use of knowledge by third countries becomes greater if a third country is involved in armed conflict. We therefore proposed that this factor would be appropriately recognised as one of the criteria based on which a profile of a third country is developed. However, we see the proposed text as balanced and in view of the significance Slovenia places on research security as a measure for ensuring better, more transparent, effective and excellent international research cooperation. We support and approve the text of the recommendations as it stands, and will endeavour to implement its provisions in line with the principles and values of the European Union. Thank you.”
  Artificial Intelligence for military purposes
• “Thank you, President. Also, Slovenia supports [00:07:30] the initiative for a stronger EU policy and adoption of action in global digital affairs, which would significantly improve EU's impact on the global stage. In our view, it is important to continue cooperation. We accept, in particular on standardisation and the ITU's objectives to achieve universal and meaningful connectivity that respects fundamental human rights and freedoms. And we believe that we should increase cooperation among EU [00:08:00] member states represented in the ITU Council. Thank you.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Slovenia supports the objectives of the proposal. The aim is to facilitate making business in the single market, reduce the administrative burden and increase the competitiveness of the EU economy. Therefore, in the spirit of compromise, Slovenia supports the general approach. There are, however, some issues for which we hope that will be adequately addressed, during dialogues. The business wallet, should complement the existing national solutions. It should not substitute them. It should not become yet another parallel communication channel. We, support, the approach of linking that up with national solutions. We should use that approach with regard to exchange of documents, especially e service of documents. We need, we notice that the system in place, only regards that the exchange of documents for competent authorities and not for the exchange between the public sector and economic, operators. This, could, be a lack of legal certain for e business, e service of documents and access to e procedures, especially within the countries where there are well functioning systems in place. 2nd, we need more legal and operational clarity. What is the relation between the European digital directory on the 1 hand and national business registers on the other? In particular, with regard to the following point, addresses for a service of documents, the link of to the business wallet for digital identity and the principle of only once as per single portal regulation. We need to make sure that the EU digital solutions function coherently. 3rd, successful implementation will depend on timely adoption of clear implementing act and having transition period that will be long enough for the necessary adaptations. All in all, the business wallet should not entail additional disproportional burden for business operators. Given these misgivings and outstanding issues, Slovenia would like to join the joint declaration by Estonia, Austria, Poland and Malta. Thank you.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “Chairman, thank you very much for giving me the floor. Commissioner colleagues, Slovenia would like to thank the presidency for the information and the work done so far. This is a very important file which regulates this area at the EU level. So we understand the ambition of the presidency to try and reach as much progress as possible. But we believe that a common approach at our [00:12:00] next council is a bit premature. We think that certain issues remain unresolved and they are important for Slovenia as well. As pointed out by the Croatian document, these are the following question. The precautionary principle and addressing both benefits and risks of new genomic techniques. Harmonised rules to prevent the risks of these techniques for the health of animals and people and other cultivation processes. [00:12:30] We should not jeopardise organic farming and conventional ways of farming then the mandatory labelling of such products. Traceability and upholding the rights of consumers to make a choice. Then there's the correlation to patent law and the scope of implementing acts by the Commission. All these questions need to be resolved. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Decarbonization shouldn't mean deindustrialization. So I fully share a lot of views in this room. Uh, that basically we have one, uh, core problem and these are unaffordable energy prices. Um, it is clear that we do not have a functioning single market on energy, as well as the lack of investment in cross border, um, grids that would technologically a part of the political will, really create conditions for a single market in that field. Um, however, I do not agree with those that this is the only topic on the agenda we have, uh, the need for market creation. We have a need to boost innovation in the sectors we are covering, uh, both in steel, uh, chemistry as well as and specifically in automotive, because on many technological fronts, we are lagging behind. And it's about the instruments of good industrial policy that has to help develop, uh, such technologies as well as decrease dependencies we face. Uh, um, actually all three of the sectors regarding, uh, Sebum. And I really share a position. Um, yes. Very open to fine tune the instruments. That's why I would call also for joint meeting of not only competitiveness ministers, but also climate and energy ministers, because we have to make a package and it is only feasible to make such package when we combine all three of the aspects, uh, that are covered. We should not, while preventing from some dependencies, uh, further increase and acknowledge the existing one.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you [00:09:00] for the floor, chair. Innovation as n-gt. Surely have a lot of potential to improve sustainability and profitability of our agri food sector. But new research shows the need to have an approach case by case and also show new risks and broader effects. So such an approach we should be taken with regulating nt1 as well. We need to be careful [00:09:30] about potential effects on human health, the environment and on potential socio economic consequences. So we are a proponent of the cautionary principle that is a well thought through approach to the use of new techniques, including checks and balances. We also need to not forget about the value of existing techniques, which have proven to be effective and safe through the years, so we should keep using them and [00:10:00] only upgrade them with caution. Our goal is not to slow down progress, but only to make sure that innovation go hand in hand with the highest standards of safety and responsibility. Thank you.”
  New Genomic Techniques
• “Chair. Thank you for giving me the floor. Animal welfare is a fundamental part of European agricultural and food policy. Its consistent implementation surpasses normal Capacities it impacts directly animal health, food safety, and consumer trust. And it also contributes to the continuity and sustainability of the European agriculture in this context. We would like to stress that the animal welfare needs to remain very recognisable. It needs to remain a priority of the European Commission's programme in 2026 and beyond. Only with ensuring continuity can we implement this policy consistently. We would like to welcome the extensive preparatory work carried out by the Commission, including Efsa scientific opinions, external studies and public consultations. We need a wholesome approach which will be a stable pillar for further legislative and political decisions. We also need to be aware of the fact that consumer awareness is very important. Slovenia would like to say that animal welfare needs to become a key pillar among best practices and priorities of the future European Commission's programme. Member states stand ready to cooperate constructively with the Commission so we can ensure continuity, consistency and balanced development of the animal welfare political measures in the future. Thank you.”
  EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers