Israel to Open First Embassy in Slovenia Following Years of Hostility

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar declared on Thursday his intention to inaugurate Israel's first embassy in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, signaling a politically significant development.

This announcement coincided with the formation of Slovenia's new government led by Janez Janša, who was elected three weeks ago following parliamentary approval.

Sa'ar described a recent phone conversation with Slovenia's new Foreign Minister, Tanja Kaisser, as "excellent." During the call, Sa'ar congratulated Kaisser on both the establishment of the new government and her appointment as foreign minister.

Regarding the discussion with his Slovenian counterpart, Sa'ar stated, "I informed her of my decision to open the first Israeli embassy in Ljubljana as soon as possible. The minister pledged to provide all necessary support."

In response, Minister Kaisser posted a message thanking Sa'ar for his congratulations on her appointment. She added, "We had a fruitful dialogue, and I am pleased that the Israeli embassy will soon open in Ljubljana. We also agreed to enhance and deepen open bilateral dialogue and cooperation in scientific, technological, and economic fields, adding tangible value to our friendly relations."

Janez Janša, Slovenia's new prime minister, also expressed support for the initiative, welcoming the move by stating, "Welcome to Ljubljana. We look forward to a new era in Slovenian-Israeli relations."

Previously, Sa'ar had described Janša's election as prime minister as the start of a new chapter in Israel-Slovenia relations. He remarked, "After years of hostility practiced by the previous government, we now have an opportunity to rebuild, strengthen, and deepen a genuine partnership."

Sa'ar further noted, "Janez Janša is a prominent friend of Israel, and his selection provides a unique opportunity to enhance bilateral relations, which had noticeably declined in recent years due to the previous government's hostility in Ljubljana. Under my leadership, the Foreign Ministry will seize this opportunity without delay."

He emphasized that the Israeli embassy would not merely serve as a diplomatic mission but would also symbolize friendship, dialogue, and shared commitment to freedom, democracy, and security. Sa'ar stated, "Today we open a new page. When Israel's friends return to power, Israel returns."

Sa'ar also confirmed that he had instructed the Foreign Ministry's director general to act swiftly and efficiently to establish the new embassy and to immediately begin the necessary procedures for appointing the ambassador.

Separately, Slovenia has imposed a travel ban on Benjamin Netanyahu.