If Slovenia was born as a nation with its independence, its stint at the helm of the EU will make it come of age: this will be its test of maturity, Slovenia's Ambassador to the EU Igor Sencar pointed out as he assumed his post as Slovenia's permanent representative at the EU in July.
How will Slovenia represent itself?
As a successful young country with a very old culture and tradition. Furthermore, it will be responsible for all the issues the EU is faced with in the field of politics, economy and security. This will be a great opportunity to upgrade Slovenia's institutions, as they will have to adapt to the contemporary way of heading a complex group of countries. In addition, it will be the best possible education for European affairs. Slovenia will have to make sure the decision-making process is conducted as smoothly as possible. Slovenia will have to be neutral and set aside its own interests.
What will the EU presidency mean for Slovenia?
A great responsibility, as Slovenia will take it over as the first EU newcomer, in fact acting on behalf of all new EU members. I am sure Slovenia will be successful, which will also be proof that the EU's 2004 enlargement was a success. During Slovenia's EU presidency, the Lisbon Strategy, the Hague programme for justice and interior affairs and the EU constitution are expected to top the agenda. Slovenia would like to come to an agreement on the EU's 2007-2013 budget framework in December, as it is nearing the threshold of 75% of the average GDP, meaning it would lose eligibility for top-level cohesion funds.
Which are the main tasks of the Slovenian mission at the moment?
It is now focusing on staff-recruitment, finance and logistics, as it now employs 48 people, while as many as 170 will be needed. In addition to these field, the EU presidency preparations, conducted by a task force led by PM Janez Jansa, include the fields of communication and content. The representation office has already drafted four organisation schemes for the staff-recruitment. In addition, the representation is to sign a contract on new premises for around 100 people, and intends to move in the spring of 2006.
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