MINISTERS GENSCHER, MOCK AND DE MICHELIS WITH PRESIDENT KUCAN

Ljubljana, 25 June 2001


The discussion revolved around prospects for a further deepening of bilateral relations between the states, as well as indemnities to Slovenians for forced and slave labour during World War II, an issue which, according to President Kucan, is probably the final chapter in leaving Europe's past to history.

Ten years of an independent Slovenia are ten years of more democracy in Europe, stated former German Foreign Minister H.D. Genscher during today's lunch hosted by President Kucan. On the occasion of the 10th anniversary celebrations of Slovenia's independence the President of the Republic invited for lunch the former foreign ministers of the Federal Republic of Germany, H.D. Genscher, the Republic of Austria, Alois Mock, and the Republic of Italy, Gianni De Michelis. In his address President Kucan expressed his gratitude to the three ministers for their assistance and understanding, emphasising that today's celebrations would not be taking place had it not been also for their great trust and support for Slovenia.

In a reply on behalf of all three former ministers, H.D. Genscher stressed that Slovenia has fully justified the confidence placed in it by the international community and he personally would make the same decision today as he did ten years ago. According to H.D. Genscher, Slovenia is one of the best qualified candidates for EU membership and the ten years of a democratic Slovenia are a story of success in every way.