We Must Strengthen Position in EU, Drnovsek Tells MPs

Ljubljana 22 October

Slovenia's position in the EU must be strengthened and the country must ensure that it takes advantage of all the possibilities on offer in the bloc, Slovenian President Janez Drnovsek has told the opening session of the Slovenian parliament.

Challenges await Slovenia on the home front as well, particularly in efforts to bolster the competitiveness of the Slovenian economy and in the search for the right balance between competition and welfare, Drnovsek said.
In his address to the new Slovenian lawmakers, Drnovsek said that, in the light of the many tasks and challenges that face the new parliament, he wishes the new lawmakers all the best in their endeavours.
According to the president, the previous three Slovenian parliaments had done a great deal of work, often under great time constraint because of the need to meet EU and NATO obligations.
On the other hand, this parliament should be more "normal" when it comes to the time on offer to it, meaning that its work could resemble that of legislatures in other European countries, Drnovsek said.
Drnovsek also said he is happy to see more and more examples of multi-partisanship in Slovenian politics.
The president said that he expects lawmakers to work for the timely election of the next Slovenian prime minister, who will work for the prompt formation of a new cabinet.
Speaking to the press after his address, Drnovsek said he expects to send his proposal for the new prime minister to parliament within thirty days, but earlier if the parties reach agreement earlier.
Drnovsek hopes a "strong government" will be formed. He said the current make up of Slovenia's parliament can achieve the formation of "solid government".
Drnovsek's opening address will be followed by the inauguration of parliament, after which the election of the parliamentary speaker is scheduled.
The outgoing government will continue to act in the capacity of caretaker government, meaning that it will be able to deal with current issues, all until a new government is elected.

We Must Strengthen Position in EU, Drnovsek Tells MPs

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