Slovenia Lifts Arms Embargo, Hosts Samaria Chief to Boost Israel Ties

Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, held an official meeting in Ljubljana this week with Slovenia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Tone Kajzer. The two discussed regional developments and the security, historical, and national significance of Judea and Samaria to the State of Israel and the Jewish people.

Kajzer expressed his country's interest in strengthening ties and advancing open dialogue. "Thank you for this visit. I am truly glad to build on this platform, to work together and create positive energy," he said. "Slovenia is walking a path of dialogue, which is very important. We have returned to that path - opening dialogue, holding honest and direct exchanges, and seeing where we can contribute. That is our shared goal."

Dagan responded: "Thank you so much for this wonderful meeting. It is an honor for me to be here with you, and thank you for everything you are doing. We appreciate it greatly. We are here to work together."

The Ljubljana meeting followed Dagan's earlier visit with incoming Prime Minister Janez Jansa, whose government has enacted a series of notable policy reversals toward Israel since taking office. The new administration lifted the arms embargo on Israel, cancelled the ban on importing goods from Judea and Samaria, and announced additional steps to strengthen bilateral relations, departing sharply from the approach of his predecessor.

Dagan and Jansa have maintained a close relationship over several years. Following Slovenia's most recent elections, the two met in Ljubljana before the new government had even been formally assembled, building on a connection forged through joint meetings and tours in both Samaria and Slovenia. Both sides have described the relationship as rooted in shared values.

At their earlier meeting, Dagan told Jansa: "You should know that the entire people of Israel appreciates you, and especially the pioneers building Judea and Samaria. We stand together, we feel your heart, and we share the same values. We have the same mission, and we are together to fulfill it. Greetings from all the people of Judea and Samaria, from all the people of Israel - we wish you success, and we will do this together."

Jansa replied: "Thank you very much. May God bless the residents of Judea and Samaria. May the friendship between Israel and Slovenia endure for many years."

In recent years, Slovenia had been regarded as one of the most critical EU member states toward Israel. The previous government formally recognized a Palestinian state, promoted measures against products from Judea and Samaria, and imposed a range of restrictions on bilateral relations. Jansa's return to power represents a significant shift in Slovenian foreign policy on these issues.

Both meetings point to a new government keen to back its words with real diplomatic and economic action. Officials on both sides said they expect to keep building on what was started in Ljubljana.