RUSSIAN INFLUENCE IN SLOVENIA

Slovenia is eager to maintain energy-focused economic ties with Russia. Moreover, the country supports lifting the sanctions imposed after the annexation of Crimea. Slovenian politicians stress “mutual respect for different opinions” in relations with Russia.

Russia is Slovenian 7th largest trade partner and the 6th biggest investor in the country. Despite the fall in trade after 2014, Slovenia still has a trade surplus with Russia. Within the EU, Slovenia has always asserted strengthen co-operation with Russia. Slovene-Russian Business Club actively promotes business ties under the banner ‘Fostering the Slavic Bonds’. Therefore, it favours of lifting the anti-Russian sanctions stressing their negative impact on the economies. Economic cooperation is high on the agenda during regular visits of Slovenian president Borut Pahor in Moscow and vice versa. Imports consist mainly of energy, while exports are dominated by pharmaceuticals, nuclear reactors, machines and mechanical devices. Slovenia is also a popular tourist destination among Russians.

Slovenia depends on Russian energy imports. Approximately 42% of gas imports supplied from Russia and 35% from Austria. Current agreement on gas from Gazprom runs through 2018. 

According to the latest Eurobarometer, 45% of Slovenians have a positive view of Russia.

Warm relations with Moscow have continued even as Slovenia joined EU sanctions. The close co-operation between the countries is manifested in annual meetings of their presidents or PMs. Slovenian politicians perceive their country as a bridge between the East and the West. 

Slovenia puts its business interest above political goals and oppose actions which might irritate Moscow.

Economic interest are important drivers of Slovenia’s foreign policy towards Russia. Officials from both countries stress their shared Slavic identity and are supporting wide cultural relations as well. Ljubljana was chosen as a headquarter of the  Forum of Slavic Cultures jointly sponsored by presidents of Slovenia and Russia.

Slovenia endeavours to maintain economic relations with Russia. Anti-Russian sanction have a negative effect on its economy.

Outlook

Russia is an important market for Slovenia, which seeks cooperation in tourism, agriculture, culture and education. Slovenia will make long-term endeavors within the European Union to encourage Russia to join the circle of shared European values with a view to establishing a long-term EU-Russia partnership. Furthermore, Slovenia will call on the players in the post-Soviet region to establish cooperation, while showing respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all the countries of the region. Slovenia will continue strengthening its partnership with the Russian Federation.