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Statement by H.E. Dr. Janez Drnovsek, Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia

at the Euro-Atlanti Partnership Council on "The Euro-Atlantic Partnership and the Challenges of the 21st Century"

22 November 2002

Mr. Secretary-General,

I wish to begin my remarks on the topic by referring to the important "Report on the Comprehensive Review of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council and the Partnership for Peace". The Report addresses some of the basic aspects of the current and future relevance of Euro-Atlantic Partnership. We therefore support its proposed innovations and adaptations, especially the recommended development of an issue-specific, result-oriented mechanism for practical cooperation involving Allies and interested Partners. In this context, we welcome the proposed "Partnership Action Plan Against Terrorism" as the first effort of this kind.

The devastating terrorist attacks of last year were directed against the United States, but they also delivered a painful blow to the entire Euro-Atlantic community. They therefore united us all in our determination to stand up in defense of the values of democracy and freedom that we cherish. The recommended Partnership Action Plan mechanism will contribute to our efforts by systematizing and organizing all forms of Partners' interaction with NATO in the response to terrorism. In this connection, I would like to recall that Slovenia promptly assumed its share of responsibilities as a member of the international anti-terrorist coalition. We have thus taken an active part in the fields of intelligence sharing, money laundering prevention and arms control. We have also taken concrete steps to buttress the stability of the new Afghan government by providing humanitarian aid, as well as sufficient weaponry to arm three battalions of the Afghan armed forces.

Slovenia will continue to demonstrate its solidarity in the fight against international terrorism. At the same time, we think it is important to reaffirm our commitment to the concept of a comprehensive and effective Euro-Atlantic Partnership by continuing efforts to increase our combat effectiveness and interoperability. Slovenia is currently involved in carrying out far-reaching military reforms, which are aimed at abolishing conscription, establishing an all-volunteer army and increasing our defense expenditures. The goal of this process is to develop a modern, deployable, sustainable and flexible fighting force, capable of facing the challenges of modern warfare and taking an active part in the Alliance's missions. In this connection, I would like to point out that Slovenia has already decided to bolster its participation in the NATO-led SFOR operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina with a combat company of the all-volunteer 10th Motorized Battalion of the Slovenian Army.

The reason why I emphasize this point is because I sincerely believe that while thinking of adapting the Euro-Atlantic Partnership to face new security challenges, we must not forget about South-Eastern Europe. The collapse of former Yugoslavia sparked a crisis in this region that has already lasted a decade. Many international factors have become involved in its resolution and today we are witnessing gradual progress. However, the work is not yet over. For this reason the region must not be forgotten, and the process of normalization must be completed. We therefore welcome the recommendation of the Report concerning the need for Allies and Partners to continue and enhance their efforts to ensure security and stability in the Balkans. Slovenia certainly stands ready to increase its engagement in its neighborhood, in order to prevent the reemergence of destabilizing, Afghanistan-like lawlessness in the middle of Europe.

Mr. Secretary-General,

The new challenges to our common security require constant attention. The current action-oriented debate is an important phase in that process. The Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council should not only be able to identify the challenges of the 21st century, but also demonstrate the ability to address them by implementing the necessary ideas. We therefore endorse the Report and the recommendations contained in it, as well as the proposed Action Plan.

Thank you.


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