Photo exhibition “25 Years”, organized by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Slovenia

Ambassador Šuc,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is my privilege to welcome you to the photo exhibition “25 Years”, to mark a quarter of a century of Slovenia’s membership in the United Nations. I would like to express my gratitude to Ambassador Šuc and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Slovenia, who organized the exhibition. Thank you also for generously inviting us to today’s reception.

Today’s exhibition takes us on a journey through 25 years of Slovenia’s membership in the United Nations which the country joined on 22 May 1992. During these two and a half decades the country has been a very active member of the international community, contributing to the work of the Organization in many different areas.

Engaged in the UN’s peace and security pillar, Slovenia has been particularly involved in activities regarding the stability of South Eastern Europe. From 1997 to 1999, Slovenia was a member of the United Nations Security Council, contributing its insight on the Balkans at a troubled time for the region. Several thousand Slovenian peacekeepers have been deployed to UN mandated and other missions. As a member of the Group of Friends of Mediation Slovenia actively encourages mediation and the peaceful settlement of conflicts.

Over the past quarter of a century, Slovenia has been a strong advocate for human rights. As a party to all major United Nations human rights treaties and instruments, Slovenia has enshrined these principles in national legislation. In October 2015, Slovenia was elected for the second time to the Human Rights Council for the period 2016–2018. It places a strong emphasis on gender equality, children’s rights and the protection of vulnerable groups.

Slovenia has been an active proponent of the 2030 Agenda. The Government is currently preparing the National Development Strategy 2030, which will reflect the 2030 Agenda. Caring for the planet and its resources – an aspiration at the heart of Agenda 2030 – has been a priority for Slovenia. But the country is not only looking at its own sustainable development, it is also assisting others. Since March 2004, Slovenia is a donor partner at the World Bank.

The reference to Slovenia’s contribution to advancing our joint multilateral agenda would not be complete if I didn’t mention the role played by eminent Slovenian Nationals. Mr. Danilo Türk stands out, of course. He has left a mark as the first Slovene Ambassador to the United Nations (1992-2000) before becoming UN Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs (2000-2005). Later, he became President of his country (2007-2012).

Ladies and gentlemen,
Slovenia has become a pioneer in encouraging innovative thinking about issues of our time. Last September, I participated in the Bled Strategic Forum which has become a key event gathering leaders for a constructive dialogue on the wide range of challenges related to peace and security, human rights and development.

Here in International Geneva, Slovenia has frequently contributed to our cultural diplomacy programme. Earlier this month we opened the exhibition “My piece of peace”, a collection of drawings by schoolchildren from across Europe. The country is devoted to preserving the Palais des Nations where it helped renovate room VI and supports the Strategic Heritage Plan.

Slovenia has much to be proud of at this landmark anniversary. Let me warmly congratulate you and thank you once more for choosing the Palais des Nations to mark this special occasion. We look forward to our continued close collaboration with the Republic of Slovenia during the coming years and decades.

Now, please enjoy the exhibition!
Thank you very much.