TΟ ΒΗΜΑ International Edition presents its 11th episode “The Ambassadors Series.” This time, we sat down and talked to the Slovenian Ambassador to Greece, Tamara Weingerl Požar.
Ms. Weingerl Požar outlines her country’s priorities in a constantly shifting and volatile geopolitical landscape. The top Slovenian diplomat informs us about the close relationship between the two countries, highlighting the harmonious collaboration at the highest levels of world fora, including as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council.
She stresses her goal is to nurture these already close ties even further by adopting various initiatives.
The top Slovenian emissary said she had received “enormous satisfaction” while engaging in the field of culture in Greece. From promoting Slovenian authors and poets in Greece in collaboration with local publishing companies, to exploring the deep historical ties that bind the countries, Ms. Weingerl Požar sees great potential in leveraging culture to connect even deeper.
On the issue of the ongoing war in Ukraine and efforts by the US to strike a lasting peace deal, Slovenia, she tells us, is clear. “Peace talks should involve both the EU and Ukraine”.
The Slovenian ambassador is unequivocal on the other major conflict of our time in Gaza. She stresses that her country supports the right of Palestine for a state of its own, while acknowledging the complexities of reaching a sustainable peace, given the decades-long war in the region.
Ms. Weingerl Požar tells us she was excited to learn of the deep ties between Greece and Slovenia that are lost in legend. She explains it goes as far back as the mythical Jason and the Argonauts. The Greek myth tells of Jason and the Argonauts stopping at the marshes near modern-day Ljubljana while returning with the Golden Fleece. There he slew a fierce dragon, which became the symbol on the coat of arms of Ljubljana.
Among other issues, the Slovenian diplomat informs us of a novel initiative she calls “Bee Diplomacy”, an effort to protect bee-keeping and pollination.
Follow ΤΟ ΒΗΜΑ International and “The Ambassadors Series” to keep informed on the global stage of diplomacy and geopolitics from an insider’s perspective.
