Janez Janša conducts diplomatic visits to Vatican and Rome

Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša conducted a series of high-level diplomatic visits to the Vatican and Rome. In the Vatican, Janša met with Pope Leo XIV to discuss the potential upgrade of the bilateral agreement between Slovenia and the Holy See, which has been in place since 2001. Discussions also touched upon international conflicts, migration, and the return of sacred art.

Following his Vatican visit, Janša met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome. The two leaders agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship between Slovenia and Italy to a strategic partnership. They outlined an action plan focusing on defense, energy, connectivity, research, innovation, and culture. Key topics included managing migration flows, protecting external borders, and reducing energy costs for households and businesses.

Separately, the Med 9 summit in Split, Croatia, brought together several Mediterranean leaders, including Meloni, to address regional security, maritime protection, and energy competitiveness. Meanwhile, in the Vatican, a pastoral meeting regarding the family was held, attended by representatives from various global Catholic conferences, including Slovenia.