Switzerland supporting Slovenia to the tune of 16 million Swiss francs

Switzerland is supporting Slovenian projects to increase energy efficiency and to expand renewable energy sources to the tune of 16 million Swiss francs up to 2029. The corresponding agreement was signed by Ignazio Cassis, member of the Federal Council and Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), on August 28 in Ljubljana. This sum is part of Switzerland’s cohesion contribution to newer European Union (EU) member states, in return for which Switzerland is granted extensive access to the EU single market.

As detailed in a press release issued by the FDFA, Cassis paid tribute to the close ties between Switzerland and Slovenia: “As Alpine nations, we share our experiences, our challenges and our expertise”.

Cassis also gave a speech at the Bled Strategic Forum, a conference with around 3000 participants organized by the Slovenian government. He discussed Switzerland’s experiences as part of the UN Security Council and as a country that is home to an array of international organizations. He also touched upon Switzerland’s position in relation to the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.

When devastating floods hit the country at the start of August, Slovenia turned to the international community for aid in the form of excavators, special vehicles, heavy military helicopters and prefabricated bridges. During his visit, Cassis announced that Switzerland would be donating 200,000 Swiss francs to support flood victims, in addition to offering its expertise in the area of reconstruction. ce/mm