Today, the newly appointed Minister Matej Arčon took over from the former Minister Dr Helena Jaklitsch. The handover took place on the premises of the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad, where the newly appointed State Secretary Vesna Humar and former State Secretary dr. Dejan Valentinčič were present as well.

Dr Jaklitsch presented the work of the last two years to Minister Arčon and touched on open issues, opportunities and possibilities for further improvement of the situation of the compatriots around the world, as well as challenges that will need to be addressed in the future. They agreed that direct contact with Slovenians abroad is crucial, which enables the perception of reality and real needs, and at the same time a symbolic message to compatriots that their homeland is interested in them, which is even more important in light of epidemiological conditions that in many places severely limited organized action. In the next step, it is also important to actively and constructively cooperate with other ministries responsible for measures in certain areas. They also emphasized the importance of the Slovene language, which is the basis for preserving Slovene culture, tradition and identity among compatriots outside their homeland. Minister Arčon also welcomed the successful efforts of the former Minister Dr Jaklitsch in increasing the budget for next year, which allows more efficient work of the Office, and above all more beneficial operation of cross-border and expatriate structures.

Dr Jaklitsch wished Minister Arčon all the best in his assignment. She expressed satisfaction that the newly appointed minister comes from the border area and demonstrates knowledge of the field of relations with Slovenians abroad. She added that she hopes and believes that he will be driven by the desire to work for the benefit of Slovenians around the world.

Minister Arčon thanked the former Minister dr. Jaklitsch for the work done and evaluated that he is leaving the office in very good condition. He announced that in his time he will also strive to strengthen cross-border integration and stressed that the office was extremely important, as it intertwined various aspects of life, such as the economy, culture and sports. The analysis will be followed by consideration of possible upgrades, he added, but it is important to ensure that organizations of Sloveneias across borders and around the world perceive the Office’s work as continuous and consistent.

 

The complete article in Slovene is available HERE.

The related article in Slovene can be found HERE.