Slovenian foreign minister to visit Phl, open embassy

Slovenian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon will make her first official visit to the Philippines from 10-12 March, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Monday.

During her two-day visit, Fajon will meet with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in key sectors, including trade and investment, science and technology, nuclear energy, maritime cooperation, sports, and labor.

“Foreign Minister Fajon and the Secretary will exchange views on regional and global issues, highlighting the Philippines and Slovenia's shared commitment to the rule of law and a rules-based international order,” the DFA said in a statement.

As part of her trip, Fajon will formally open the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Manila, which is the first and only Slovenian diplomatic mission in Southeast Asia.

Accompanied by a delegation from the Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Fajon will also engage with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the Slovenia-Philippines Business Forum to foster trade and economic collaboration between businesses from both nations.

Additionally, the Slovenian official will deliver a lecture at Far Eastern University, providing insights on diplomacy, international relations, and Slovenia’s role in global affairs.

Fajon's visit is expected to bolster diplomatic, economic, and academic partnerships between the Philippines and Slovenia, further expanding ties between the two nations.