Key facts
- Israel plans to open its first embassy in Slovenia.
- The move signals improved relations between the two countries.
- The new Slovenian government is expected to shift foreign policy.
- The previous Slovenian government had recognized a Palestinian state and banned entry for the Israeli Prime Minister.
Israel intends to establish its first embassy in Slovenia, according to Foreign Minister Gideon Saar. This development indicates an improvement in bilateral relations since the recent election of Janez Jansa's center-right government in Ljubljana. Saar noted that the previous Slovenian administration had adopted a hostile stance, including recognizing a Palestinian state and banning entry for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The establishment of a mission in Slovenia is seen as providing Israel with a significant foothold within the European Union and NATO.