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This summary is provided by the STA:

Cerar quits party he founded after SMC joins Janša coalition

LJUBLJANA - Miro Cerar, Slovenia's outgoing foreign minister, announced he was quitting the party he founded, saying the Modern Centre Party (SMC) lost its face after joining the new coalition led by Janez Janša of the right-wing Democrats (SDS). While not yet saying if he will return to serve as MP, Cerar acknowledged he had "seriously considered [SMC head] Zdravko Počivalšek's proposal to head the National Assembly", but only so "the SMC could protect the principle of the division of power and serve as a liberal corrective to a right-wing government". Revealing the offer to Cerar had in fact been withdrawn, Počivalšek said the party needed to undergo a consolidation and go forward.

PM: Slovenia will have to react quickly if migrations surge

LJUBLJANA - Slovenia will have to react very quickly if migrations increase after Turkey decided to open its borders with Greece, outgoing Prime Minister Marjan Šarec told reporters. Šarec said Slovenia would act in line with an agreement with other European countries. But if no such agreement is reached, it will have to rely on its own forces, he added. "We will not be able to allow people to cross the country freely without papers. So we are preparing all possible scenarios." Legislative changes granting additional powers to the army are ready and may be confirmed by parliament as needed.

Lenarčič says cooperation needed to contain coronavirus

LJUBLJANA - European Crisis Management Commissioner Janez Lenarčič underscored the need for joint action in the combat against the novel coronavirus, saying in a televised debate last night that it was an illusion to think an individual country could successfully contain the outbreak. Appearing on TV Slovenija, the Slovenian commissioner said that the epidemic should be taken seriously although panic was uncalled for. Commenting on Turkey's decision to open its borders to let migrants head to the EU, Lenarčič said "the EU counts on Turkey to abide by the agreement and not to allow an uncontrolled flow of refugees or migrants to the west".

Business welcomes agreement to form a new coalition, unions mission reform plans

LJUBLJANA - The Association of Employers said a new government as soon as possible was the best solution and AmCham Slovenija also welcomed the signing of the agreement to form a new, centre-right coalition, including the intention to reduce administrative barriers and upgrade the tax system. ZSSS trade union confederation head Lidija Jerkič on the other hand noted the document said nothing about an overhaul or reform of the pension, health or tax systems, or the employment relationships act.

SDS opens huge gap to LMŠ in Nova24TV poll

LJUBLJANA - The Democrats (SDS) have increased their lead in the latest weekly poll commissioned by the private broadcaster Nova24TV, despite losing voter support compared to a week ago. The SDS polled at 20.4% this time, as much as 7.2 percentage points ahead of the Marjan Šarec List (LMŠ) of the outgoing prime minister, on 13.2%. The SDS, the party at the centre of an incoming right-wing government, polled at 22.4% a week ago and the LMŠ at 16.2%. The SocDems replaced the Left in third after gaining 2.5 points to 7.8%.

SocDem leader seeking cooperation agreement on the left

LJUBLJANA - The leader of the Social Democrats (SD) called on fellow centre-left parties that will soon be relegated to the opposition to forge a cooperation agreement after Janez Janša forms a conservative government."It is time that the fighting between the parties in the new opposition is pushed to the background and we look for a way to cooperate better," Dejan Židan said in an open letter to the leaders of the Marjan Šarec List (LMŠ), Left and Alenka Bratušek Party (SAB).

European Journalist Federation concerned by threats to Slovenian journalists

LJUBLJANA - The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) joined the Slovenian Association of Journalists in condemning the "intensive attacks" on journalists reporting about alleged funding from Hungary of media close to the Democrats (SDS). The EFJ called on the Slovenian authorities to secure a safe environment for journalists. "Death threats can lead to targeted violence and endanger journalists ... Fear and violence should not be part of the journalists' daily life," said EFJ General Secretary Ricardo Gutiérrez.

Renault to produce electric Twingo in Slovenia

NOVO MESTO - The new electric version of the Renault Twingo, expected to be released at the end of this year, will be produced at the assembly plant Revoz in Slovenia, Revoz confirmed. Revoz is currently in the process of getting prepared for the new project, including setting up an additional facility for assembling batteries. Meanwhile, Revoz plans to complete a transition to half-night night shifts by April and thus decrease its production from 950 vehicles per day to 800. It also intends to slash the number of workers by some 250.

Triglav Group net profit increases 4% to EUR 84m in 2019

LJUBLJANA - Triglav, Slovenia's leading insurance group, saw net profit increase 4% to almost EUR 84 million in 2019 on the back of an 11% increase in gross written premiums, which totalled EUR 1.18 billion, show unaudited results. Return on equity improved marginally to 10.9% and the combined ratio, a key insurance industry benchmark, improved to 91.5% from 91.8%. Premium growth was recorded on all insurance markets and in all insurance segments. Non-life insurance premium increased by 10%, health insurance premium by 23%, and life and pension insurance premiums by 4%.

R&D spending up in 2018 after four years of decline

LJUBLJANA - After four years of decline, gross spending on research and development (R&D) increased in 2018 to almost EUR 900 million, or 11% more than in the year before, the Statistic Office said. This is however still 1 percentage point bellow the target of at least 3% of GDP invested in R&D by 2020. The Statistic Office has been monitoring data on R&D investments in the business, public, higher education and non-profit private sectors, with the business sector being the largest with 14,415 out of the total of 23,633 employees.

Ulay, German conceptual artist who lived in Slovenia, dies

LJUBLJANA - Ulay, a major contemporary visual artist best known as a pioneer of body art and collaborator of performance artist Marina Abramović, has died aged 76, Slovenian media reported on Monday. He lived between Amsterdam and Ljubljana for the past decade. In the course of his career he exhibited at major galleries including the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, Centre Pompidou in Paris and the MOMA in New York.

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Slovenia prepared for possible surge in migrations

LJUBLJANA - Slovenian authorities said they were prepared for a possible increase in migrations after Turkey decided to open its borders with Greece. "We are ready for a possible increase in illegal crossings of the national border. We have a variety of activities and measures available that we will adjust to the situation on the ground," the Interior Ministry said Saturday evening. It said it was monitoring the situation and exchanging information with countries in the region.

Slovenia remains without confirmed coronavirus cases

LJUBLJANA - There were no confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Slovenia by Sunday evening, but given that the virus has been spreading east from Italy in recent days, Slovenian authorities acknowledged the first confirmed case is imminent. Just over 200 tests have conducted so far and all of them have been negative, but "the first confirmation of infection is just a matter of time," the government said.

Criminal complaints filed in connection with Friday's protest

LJUBLJANA - At least two criminal complaints have been filed in connection with a recent protest that targeted the incoming coalition. One criminal complaint was filed on behalf of the organisers against an unknown person who shouted "Kill Janša" in the crowd. The other was filed against SDS MP Zvonko Černač, who reposted a post on Twitter that the organisers say was hateful.

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Foreign Ministry welcomes Afghanistan peace deal

LJUBLJANA - The Foreign Ministry welcomed the signing of a landmark peace agreement between the US and Afghanistan's Taliban, saying that only bilateral and inclusive dialogue striving for compromise solutions could ensure a successful agreement leading to sustainable peace and stability for all citizens of Afghanistan. It also welcomed Afghanistan's progress so far and its achievements in fighting terrorism as well as human rights efforts. The ministry pointed out that Slovenian military remained in Afghanistan. "The allies will continue deciding on further steps together in cooperation with Afghanistan's government," it said.

Last Slovenian Diamond Princess passengers return home

LJUBLJANA - The last two Slovenian passengers from the quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princess returned to Slovenia, flying home on a commercial flight after renewed tests for the coronavirus turned out negative in Japan, Health Ministry State Secretary Simona Repar Bornšek told the press, adding that the pair felt well and were no longer infectious. Out of the six Slovenian passengers on the ship, the two were the only ones who had tested positive and been hospitalised in Japan where they experienced only mild symptoms. The latest tests, taken twelve days after the first, were negative.

Slovenia second at Ski Jumping World Cup team event

LAHTI, Finland - The Slovenian men's ski jumping team won second place in the Ski Jumping World Cup event in Finland's Lahti, finishing only behind Germany. Austria were third. The Slovenian team included Cene Prevc, Timi Zajc, Peter Prevc and Anže Lanišek.

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First estimate puts Slovenia's GDP growth in 2019 at 2.4%

LJUBLJANA - Slovenia's GDP expanded by 2.4% in 2019 after growing by 1.7% in the final quarter year-on-year, shows the first estimate released by the Statistics Office. The annual increase is slightly below what had been announced in projections. The Statistics Office said external demand had had a positive impact on economic growth even though the growth of exports was more moderate than in 2017 and 2018. Exports increased by 4.4% in 2019, which compares to 6.1% the year before.

Vote on Janša as prime minister-designate expected on Tuesday

LJUBLJANA - The National Assembly is expected to vote in a secret ballot on the appointment of Janez Janša, the head of the Democrats (SDS), prime minister-designate next Tuesday. The plenary will start on Monday with questions for members of the outgoing government, and MPs are expected to put the vote on Janša on the agenda for Tuesday. In order to be confirmed, Janša needs at least 46 votes in the 90-member legislature and he is expected to be confirmed with a slight majority.

Protest held against incoming government

LJUBLJANA - A group of NGOs staged a protest against the emerging centre-right coalition, with the participants stopping outside the headquarters of the Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) and Modern Centre Party (SMC) to urge them to reconsider their decision to join the "coalition of hate". More than a thousand protesters reminded the SMC and DeSUS of their promise ahead of the 2018 election not to join a coalition headed by Janez Janša, the Democrats' (SDS) leader. On the sidelines of the protest, left-leaning parties engaged in a blame game over the new government.

N Macedonian police said to suspect Hungarian money laundered through Slovenia

LJUBLJANA - The Slovenian web portal Oštro along with two more investigative journalism groups in the region run a report alleging that a Slovenia-based company was used to launder illegal Hungarian government money and finance media propaganda in North Macedonia. The report - coming after those showing entrepreneurs close to Hungarian PM Viktor Orban helped fund Slovenian media with ties to the Democrats (SDS) and Macedonian media associated with the country's VMRO-DPMNE party - is based on an investigation that had been started by Macedonian financial police in 2018.

Committee in heated debate over foreign ownership of media

LJUBLJANA - Members of the Culture Committee called on the relevant authorities to look into the flow of funds used to finance media in Slovenia after a heated debate on Thursday, initiated by the call to discuss the Hungarian financing of media with ties to the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS). The six-hour session, which was called at the request of the Marjan Šarec List (LMŠ), saw the debate expand beyond the main topic, with the ownership of a number of Slovenian media houses being discussed.

Five Slovenian MEPs join petition against rise of hate ideology

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Five Slovenian MEPs, including Milan Brglez (S&D/SD) as the first among 45 signatories, joined a petition calling on the European Commission and the EU Council to respond to the rise of hate ideology and hate speech. The MEPs also urge the preservation of core EU values, starting with the protection of human rights and rights of minorities.

Social partners support EU minimum wage, differ on concept

LJUBLJANA - A debate hosted by MEP Milan Brglez showed that social partners in Slovenia broadly support the introduction of a EU-wide minimum wage, but disagree over what kind of concept should be used. The outgoing government is in favour of a minimum wage based on the cost of living, which Labour Ministry State Secretary Tilen Božič said was a concept that emphasises the human aspect. Employers are more in favour of a mathematical approach that draws on macroeconomic indicators.

Port operator Luka Koper reports 32% decline in net profit for 2019

LJUBLJANA - Luka Koper, the operator of Slovenia's sole maritime port, saw a group net profit plunge by 32% to EUR 40.4 million in 2019 due to a slowdown of global trade. Revenue remained broadly flat at EUR 228.7 million, six percent below plans, the company said. Profit before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) declined by over a quarter to EUR 73.1 million and operating profit (EBIT), at EUR 45.3 million, was 35% lower than in the year before.

Insurance group Sava's profit up 16.7% to EUR 50.2m last year

LJUBLJANA - The insurance group Sava collected EUR 599.3 million in gross premiums last year, 9.7% more than in 2018, while its net profit was up 16.7% to EUR 50.2 million. The company's unaudited financial results show that the gross premium growth was contributed mainly by Slovenian non-life insurance business, which was up 12.2%, and the non-life insurance business in foreign countries (+20.3%).

Boxmark Leather to lay off almost 300 workers by end-April

KIDRIČEVO - The foreign-owned car upholstery maker Boxmark Leather announced it would lay off a total of 288 workers at its sole remaining Slovenian location, in Kidričevo, by the end of April, with 157 handed pink slips today. The management said the company would stay in the country, denying the rumours about production closure.

Annual inflation in February at 2% due to costlier food, housing

LJUBLJANA - Consumer prices in Slovenia were up by 2% on average in February over the same month in 2019, mostly due to higher prices of food and housing. More expensive holiday packages were the main factor in the monthly inflation, which stood at 0.7%, the Statistics Office reported. Food prices, gong up by 4.3%, contributed 0.6 of a percentage point to the annual inflation, with the prices of meat and fruit increasing by over 11%.

Survey unemployment in last quarter of 2019 lowest on record

LJUBLJANA - The survey unemployment rate in Slovenia stood at 4% in the fourth quarter of 2019, down 0.8 percentage points from the previous quarter, reaching the lowest point since 1997, when the Statistics Office started to implement the survey on the quarterly basis. The survey unemployment rate dropped the most in the 50-64 age category, by 1.1 percentage points to 3%.

Survey find Slovenians optimistic about EU future

BRUSSELS, Belgium - The latest Barometer survey shows that Slovenians are more optimistic about the future of the EU than citizens from other member states. As many as 69% of the Slovenians polled are very or quite optimistic about the EU future, which compares to the EU average of 60%. Slovenians see healthcare, social care and pensions as well as immigration and climate change as main national challenges, while immigration and climate change (27%) are deemed most burning issues at the EU level.

Documentary on Trieste National Hall arson premiers

LJUBLJANA - The arson of the Trieste National Hall (Narodni dom) by the Fascists a century ago marked the start of a painful period for the Slovenian community that ended up on the Italian side of the border. Author Majda Širca sheds light on that event and the traumatic developments coming in its wake in the documentary Arson (Požig), which premiered in Ljubljana. She told the STA in an interview that the arson marked the beginning of Fascism in Europe.

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Slovenian, Croatian presidents urge resolution of open issues

OTOČEC - Slovenian President Borut Pahor and Croatia's Zoran Milanović called for the resolution of all open bilateral issues as they met just over a week after Milanović was sworn in. They urged the governments of both countries to work towards excellent relations in all fields. Speaking to the press after their meeting in Otočec in south Slovenia, Pahor and Milanović said they touched on all open issues, including the border and Croatia's entry into the Schengen passport-free zone, agreeing they will not be resolved overnight.

Govt adopts measures in preparation for coronavirus, warns against panic

LJUBLJANA - The outgoing cabinet adopted measures to contain the new coronavirus in case it spreads to Slovenia. It released strategic commodity reserves to ensure enough protective gear but noted that borders with neighbouring countries remained open and that there was no reason for panic. Criticising checks conducted by Croatia on border crossings, PM Marjan Šarec said responsible action was needed as the side effects of the protective measures could be more harmful than the virus itself. No coronavirus infection has been recorded in Slovenia as yet.

Government adopts National Energy and Climate Plan

LJUBLJANA - The outgoing government adopted the National Energy and Climate Plan, a set of energy policy and climate change mitigation measures until 2030. It called the document "a key step towards a climate-neutral Slovenia until 2050". Infrastructure Minister Alenka Bratušek said the goal was to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 36%, improve energy efficiency by at least 35% and have at least 27% of energy come from renewable sources. The plan was slightly altered after the draft was criticised by both NGOs and industry - the latter primarily lamented the absence of new hydro plants on the central Sava river and the final version now includes plans for further use of hydro energy.

Slovenia warns against two-tier EU in green transition

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Economy Ministry State Secretary Aleš Cantarutti, who attended a ministerial of the EU Competitiveness Council, called for an appropriate way of dealing with energy-intensive industry in the new EU industrial strategy, highlighting the importance of swift restructuring of those industrial branches, and cautioned against a two-tier Europe in the green transition.

Commission vote on EU court judge nominees postponed

LJUBLJANA - The Privileges and Credentials Commission postponed a vote on the nominees for judges at the EU's General Court in a development that could signal the lack of support for either of the two nominees for one of the available seats. Klemen Podobnik is the candidate for one of the two seats reserved for Slovenia, while Jure Vidmar and Nina Savin Bossière have been shortlisted for the second. While Podobnik seems to have enough support, the decision on the second spot could be influenced by the recent change in the constelation of the coalition.

Sava approves merger with hotel operator

LJUBLJANA - The shareholders of one of the biggest tourism companies in the country, Sava Turizem, approved the merger with Hoteli Bernardin. The merger is seen as big step in the setting up of the planned state-owned tourism holding. Hoteli Bernardin, 87% owned by Sava Turizem, will expectedly confirm the merger tomorrow, while today's decision will be challenged by the Association of Small Shareholders. In a related development, the state asset custodian SSH, a key owner of the Sava holding, brokered a deal with York Global Finance to buy the fund's 43% stake in Sava along with outstanding claims. Delo reported the deal was worth EUR 50 million.

Mlekarna Celeia reduced workforce by almost 10% last year

ARJA VAS - The dairy Mlekarna Celeia last year failed to extend fixed-term contracts to 12 employees and was also forced to lay off 11 workers on open-ended contracts as it is cutting costs as part of a business restructuring process. The cooperatives-owned dairy, based in Arja Vas near Celje, said job cuts had been made in various segments, ranging from administration to production. Mlekarna Celeia added that it currently employed 209 people, nine of whom would meet the conditions for retirement this year, and would not be replaced.

Zoran Mušič's Dachau drawings on show at Moderna

LJUBLJANA - Zoran Mušič's iconic drawings from the Dachau concentration camp, including some not yet exhibited in Slovenia, went on display at Moderna Galerija, the Museum of Modern Art. The exhibition Condemned to Hope - Drawings from Dachau brings together Mušič's Dachau sketches from Slovenia, those discovered in Italy in 2016 and a selection of his impressions on paper from the series We Are Not the Last from public and private collections in Slovenia and Italy.

Four cities remain in race for European Culture Capital 2025

LJUBLJANA - The cities of Nova Gorica, Ptuj, Ljubljana and Piran have made it into the second round of the competition for the title of the European Capital of Culture 2025, Cristina Farinha, the chairperson of the European Capitals of Culture Expert Panel announced. Two cities, Kranj and Lendava, were eliminated today. The final pick is to be announced in December.

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President Pahor nominates SDS leader Janša for prime minister

LJUBLJANA - President Borut Pahor formally nominated Janez Janša, the leader of the Democrats (SDS), for prime minister after four parties reached an agreement to form a centre-right coalition. Having joined forces with the Modern Centre Party (SMC), New Slovenia (NSi) and Pensioners' Party (DeSUS), Janša can count on a slim but comfortable majority in the 90-member parliament, which has to vote on the nomination in seven days at the latest. Janša said the coalition agreement showed the four parties were willing to seek compromise solutions and would work to tackle the most pressing issues that Slovenia faces, even as he noted that only two and a half years remained until the next scheduled election.

New govt to revive conscription, secure border

LJUBLJANA - The coalition government that is being formed by Janez Janša is planning to reintroduce military conscription, effectively secure the border, decentralise the country and increase local government funding, as well as introduce a general child benefit. This follows from a 13-page draft coalition agreement obtained by the STA. Unofficial information indicates the four coalition parties have already signed the agreement.

Slovenia remains without any confirmed cases of coronavirus

LJUBLJANA - The government said that all test results for COVID-19 conducted in Slovenia so far - the results for 59 people were in by noon - had been negative. The news came in response to rampant misinformation on social media, with users widely circulating debunked rumours about alleged infections in recent days. Public institutions in Slovenia have started taking precautionary measures to protect staff against coronavirus infections, including by cancelling some events, although the Health Ministry says there is no reason to call off public events. Democrats (SDS) head and likely new PM Janez Janša suggested Slovenia should activate the Civil Protection Service.

Pahor does not expect breakthrough in first meeting with Milanović

LJUBLJANA - President Borut Pahor toned down expectations ahead of a meeting with Croatian counterpart Zoran Milanović scheduled for Thursday. He said the meeting would be "very important" but would serve to establish mutual trust rather than achieve a convergence of positions. The plan is to broach border arbitration. While Croatia does not recognise the arbitration tribunal's award, the presidents will discuss how it may be possible to determine the course of the border as set by the arbitration tribunal in a reasonable time, Pahor told the press.

Serbia sells 83% of Komercijalna Banka to NLB for EUR 387m

LJUBLJANA/BELGRADE, Serbia - The Slovenian NLB bank announced it had signed an agreement with the Serbian government to acquire the 83% state stake in the bank Komercijalna Banka. The deal worth EUR 387 million is pending regulatory approval and is expected to be finalised in the last quarter of the year. As a result of the transaction, NLB's market share in Serbia will increase to over 12.1% by total assets, making it the third largest banking group in the country, the Slovenian bank added.

Slovenia making little progress in tackling key socio-economic challenges

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Slovenia has made little progress in tackling key socio-economic challenges the country faces, including one of the financially most important issues, the long-term care of its ageing population, shows a European Commission report. Some progress has been achieved in the professionalisation and independent oversight in public procurement, and in labour market policies that increase the employability of low-skilled and older workers by improving labour market relevance of education and training. Limited progress was also detected in economic policies facilitating the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Central Slovenia to get EUR 93 million for development projects

LJUBLJANA - Central Slovenia, one of Slovenia's 12 statistical regions, will get EUR 93 million in EU and state subsidies for 21 development projects under an agreement signed on Wednesday. Just over EUR 45 million of the total funding comes from EU cohesion funds, Economy Minister Zdravko Počivalšek said after signing a supplementary regional development agreement with Metod Ropret, the head of the Osrednjeslovenska Development Council. A combined EUR 67.5 million will be invested in fourteen projects promoting multi-modal urban mobility.

Analysts say new coalition long-term project, disagree on SMC

LJUBLJANA - Commenting on the formation of a new coalition around the Democrats (SDS), analysts agreed that the four-party coalition is a long-term project, while disagreeing on the role and strength of what is seen as the key partner, the Modern Centre Party (SMC). Slovenia will get a centre-right government with a noticeable left-leaning touch, Andraž Zorko of the pollster Valicon has told the STA, pointing to the SMC as the weakest link due to being the one which could tear the future government apart. Meanwhile, Rok Čakš of the news portal Domovina assessed that the SMC is "without doubt the biggest winner" of the coalition talks, while NSi could be less satisfied, but is not a loser as it will assume responsibility for relatively important departments.

Two Slovenian regions eligible for EU green transition funds

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Two Slovenian regions, Savinjska in the east and the central Zasavska region, are among a hundred EU regions eligible for financing from the EU fund for a fair green transition. The regions picked are either heavily dependant on coal or have the highest carbon emissions, European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira said. Some EUR 7.5 billion have been set aside for the fund, of which EUR 92 million have been allocated to Slovenia.

Watchdog takes action against 2018 attempted takeover if Cinkarna

LJUBLJANA - The securities market watchdog has taken action against the Vienna-based Ring International Holding over market manipulation related to its attempted takeover of Cinkarna Celje. The private company published a takeover intent in June 2018 after manipulating the market to reduce the price of the chemical company's shares.

Slovenia spearheading right to healthy environment campaign

GENEVA, Switzerland - Foreign Ministry State Secretary Matej Marn, who attended the 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council, said that a group of countries led by Slovenia would start a discussion on declaring a right to a healthy environment at a global level. Marn highlighted Slovenia's commitment to international law, respecting human rights and effective multilateralism and pointed at the influence of the technological and AI development on human rights.

Debate hears green path, circular economy a must for Slovenia

LJUBLJANA - A panel debate on the European green deal saw Environment Minister Simon Zajc claim that a green path is a must for Slovenia as it would otherwise remain too dependent on foreign countries. He also pointed to the importance of circular economy, as those who fail to adopt it would very soon fall out of competition. Speaking at the event hosted by the newspaper Finance and BKS Bank, the minister noted that the new European Commission had set very ambitious and determined goals in the environment and transition to zero-carbon society.

Pahor decorates former Justice Minister Šturm

LJUBLJANA - Former justice minister and Constitutional Court judge Lovro Šturm received the Silver Order for Services from President Borut Pahor. Pahor also conferred the Order for Services on former Ljubljana mayor Jože Strgar and Slovenski Dom, a Slovenian cultural association from Zagreb. Šturm was honoured for his "extraordinary contribution to the implementation of the rule of law and the Constitution".

Slovenia donates EUR 30,000 for aid to Yemen

LJUBLJANA - Slovenia has donated EUR 30,000 to the World Food Programme (WFP) for humanitarian aid to Yemen, the Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday, adding that Slovenia has thus fulfilled its obligation for this year stemming from the pledge given at the donor conference for Yemen in Geneva a year ago. Slovenia promised in Geneva to donate EUR 100,000 to WFP for Yemen between 2019 and 2021. The donation announced today fulfils the country's obligation for this year.

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SDS, SMC, NSi and DeSUS agree to form govt

LJUBLJANA - The top bodies of the Democrats (SDS), Modern Centre Party (SMC), New Slovenia (NSi) and Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) confirmed entry in a coalition led by SDS head Janez Janša. The SDS's proposal to appoint Janša prime minister was submitted to President Borut Pahor, who makes the formal nomination. Outgoing Prime Minister Marjan Šarec said he was not surprised at the prospect of a new Janša government, which he saw from the start as one of the possible outcomes of his resignation.

Serbian govt unofficially decides to sell bank to NLB

BELGRADE, Serbia - The Serbian government has decided to sell the 83% state stake in the bank Komercijalna Banka to the Slovenian market leader NLB, the local newspaper Blic reported, citing unofficial information. The paper reports that the contract to sell the bank, which has a 11% market share in Serbia, is ready and is to be signed soon. It is not clear how much NLB is to pay for Komercijalna Banka, but media reported in the past months that its bid reached up to EUR 450 million.

Former Chinese lessee of Maribor Airport to sue the state

MARIBOR - A company in Chinese ownership that used to lease the Maribor Airport plans to file a damage suit against the state after it terminated the lease in early 2019, whereupon the airport management was turned over to a state-owned consulting and engineering company. Aerodrom Maribor said it will demand EUR 2.1 million in damages plus costs and lost profits. The lawsuit will claim that the state dragged its feet on the adoption of a zoning plan that would have allowed the airport to extend the runway, and engaged in violations of the law by continuing to use real estate at the airport that the company owns. Infrastructure Minister Alenka Bratušek said the plaintiff had absolutely no chance of success.

Slovenia hopeful N Macedonia, Albania will get EU talks approval in March

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Foreign Ministry State Secretary Matej Marn, attending an EU ministerial on a recently-proposed reform of the enlargement process, said that based on the debate, it was very likely that North Macedonia and Albania will get the green light to start accession talks in March. EU member states also unanimously confirmed the guidelines for negotiations on future relations with Great Britain, with Marn listing the economic aspects of the ties at the top of the priorities highlighted by Slovenia.

Ambassadors from Sweden, South Africa present credentials

LJUBLJANA - President Borut Pahor was presented with the credentials of newly appointed Swedish Ambassador Dag Hartelius and South African Ambassador Rapulane Sydney Molekane. Hartelius has previously served as ambassador to Poland and Estonia as well as permanent representative of Sweden to the EU. Molekane's most recent posting before becoming South African ambassador to Austria, Slovenia and Slovakia was ambassador to France, Monaco and permanent delegate of South Africa to the UNESCO. Molekane will cover Slovenia from Vienna, while Hartelius will be based out of Budapest.

Banks report continued decline in fresh retail loans

LJUBLJANA - The Bank Association has observed a "marked fall" in freshly approved retail loans in the months following the central bank's brake on lending to households, both for consumer and housing loans. Data that 13 banks submitted to the association show the number of newly approved consumer loans reduced from 10,816 in September and 13,484 in October to 5,566 in November, 5,009 in December and 6,277 in January. The number of housing loans dropped from 1,154 in September, 1,701 in October, 1,160 in November, 984 in December and 1,019 in January.

Cimos profit plummets

KOPER - Car parts maker Cimos recorded EUR 180,432 in profit last year, a significant drop from EUR 4.7 million in 2018. Operating revenue dropped from EUR 211.1 million to EUR 187 million. Sales revenue reached EUR 184.9 million, down from EUR 203.9 million in 2018. Cimos said the results were in line with plans except in the part connected to the new projects for car maker Audi, where the start of a serial production was delayed because of the situation on all markets.

Public institutions taking precautionary measures to protect against coronavirus

LJUBLJANA - Public institutions started taking precautionary measures to protect staff against coronavirus infections after first cases of the virus were confirmed in neighbouring Italy, Austria and Croatia. Some schools have cancelled planned activities, including parent-teacher conferences and international exchanges. The University of Ljubljana called on all students and faculty who have been to parts of Italian affected by the coronavirus over last ten days to remain in self-imposed quarantine for two weeks. Meanwhile, retailers report increased footfall as shoppers grabbed by panic are stocking up.

Slovenia's tourism bullish in January

LJUBLJANA - Slovenian tourism figures recorded an upward trend in January. The number of tourists grew by 8% year-on-year, while the number of nights increased by some 4%, show Statistics Office data. Almost 286,000 arrivals and some 789,000 nights were recorded in January. Foreign tourists accounted for 64% of all nights. Domestic arrivals totalled some 97,000, a 8% increase compared to the same month in 2019. International arrivals grew by 8% year-on-year as well, to 189,000.

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Authorities seek to reassure public over coronavirus

LJUBLJANA - In the wake of the novel coronavirus spreading in Italy, health authorities in Slovenia said no additional protective measures were needed for healthy population in the country. They denied the rumours of patients testing positive for the virus in Slovenia. After the Secretariat of the National Security Council met to discuss the situation, PM Marjan Šarec said proportionate measures would be taken in coordination with neighbouring countries. He said Slovenia would close its border with Italy should that prove necessary.

Pahor to meet Milanović on Thursday

LJUBLJANA - President Borut Pahor will host his new Croatian counterpart Zoran Milanović on his first trip abroad in Otočec in eastern Slovenia on Thursday. Pahor's office said that the two heads of state would meet over a working lunch at Otočec Castle after which they will address reporters. This will be the first meeting between the pair since Milanović was sworn in as Croatia's president on 18 February. He made mending relations with Slovenia one of his election promises.

Cerar urges reform progress in W Balkans

THESSALONIKI, Greece - Foreign Minister Miro Cerar urged Western Balkan countries to make reform headway as he addressed a high-level conference in Thessaloniki designed to push forward the stalled EU enlargement process to the region. Cerar highlighted "the need for in-depth reforms, in particular in rule of law and the fight against corruption and organised crime". But he added that reforms needed to go in lockstep with the enlargement process to motivate countries in the region to take reforms.

POP TV poll latest to detect SDS surge

LJUBLJANA - Janez Janša's Democrats (SDS) continue to surge in the polls, with a survey commissioned by POP TV the latest to show them overtaking the party of outgoing Prime Minister Marjan Šarec. The SDS added over four points on the month before to 18.2%, whereas the LMŠ lost almost two points to 13.4%. The Left in third held steady at 7.3% while the Social Democrats lost just over a point to 6.1%. Over a fifth of respondents were undecided and almost a tenth did not opt for any of the parties listed or refused to answer.

Assembly for Republic calls on parties to be inclusive

LJUBLJANA - As the talks on the formation of a centre-right coalition government are ongoing, the right-leaning outfit Assembly for the Republic called on the parliamentary parties to be constructive, inclusive and cooperative. In what is a third public letter sent by various groups to the parliamentary parties in recent weeks, the civil society organisation urged MPs to endorse "statesmen capable of displaying greater political culture and commitment to the country."

Protest, book launch mark start of hearing for extraditing Assange

LJUBLJANA - A protest was held in front of the UK Embassy in Ljublja as Britain started hearing a US case requesting extradition of WikiLeaks' founder Julian Assange. Much like in other towns around the world, the protesters called for media freedom and the freedom of speech. Publisher Sanje launched Assange's unauthorised autobiography today, a first-person narrative based on the interviews that writer Andrew O'Hagan had made with Assange.

Opposing bills filed on contentious issue of vaccination

LJUBLJANA - Modern Centre Party (SMC) MPs tabled amendments to the contagious diseases act, aiming to improve the immunisation rate to 95% by limiting access of unvaccinated children to kindergartens. The step coincided with the non-parliamentary party For Healthy Society submitting to parliament a proposal to abolish mandatory vaccination altogether. The party collected 5,000 signatures in support of its proposal and believes it can garner enough support for its passage.

Coronavirus so far not affecting Slovenian economy

LJUBLJANA - The novel coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak has so far had no profound effect on Slovenia's economy, but problems have arisen in certain areas. Economy Minister Zdravko Počivalšek said that the government was deliberating mitigation measures, such as subsidies to compensate for shorter working time. The minister pointed out though that any measures to protect public health must not interrupt the flow of goods.

Business sentiment improves for third consecutive month

LJUBLJANA - Slovenian firms appear to be upbeat, although still more pessimistic than a year ago. The business sentiment index rose over a percentage point in February, the third consecutive month of growth, on the back of improved sentiment in manufacturing and retail, the Statistics Office said. Business sentiment is almost four percentage points lower than a year ago: all sectors except retail are more pessimistic than in February 2019.

Start-up support fund invests EUR 4m in five companies

LJUBLJANA - A new fund established by the start-up support community Silicon Gardens has raised EUR 4 million from successful Slovenian companies in three months to invest in five digital start-ups. The Silicon Gardens II fund is targeting to raise EUR 5 million to help start-ups enter foreign markets. The investors include the Slovenian subsidiary of the Swiss sports data analyst Sportradar, video game developer Outfit7, software company Cosylab and e-commerce companies Studio Moderna and Mimovrste.

Paradajz investing EUR 6m in new tomato greenhouse

TURNIŠČE - A subsidiary of Paradajz, the produce maker based in Turnišče in north-eastern Slovenia and best known for its tomato brand Lušt, will construct a 2.4 hectare greenhouse to grow tomato in the autumn and winter in an investment worth EUR 6 million. The investment, which is expected to create between 20 and 25 jobs, has won a EUR 1.7 million state subsidy.

Ancient rhino remains unearthed at rail constriction site

ČRNI KAL - Preparations of the site for the construction of the Koper-Divača rail track have unearthed 120,000-year-old rhinoceros bone fossils. The excavations will continue for the next three weeks, with the rail project put on hold during this period, said 2TDK, the company managing the project, on Monday. The excavation site is a filled Karst cavity, with three major bones and a number of small, fragmented pieces dug up so far.

Festival of Mountaineering Film kicks off

LJUBLJANA - The 14th Festival of Mountaineering Film opened with the screening of The Sweet Requiem, a film about a Tibetan refugee who escaped to India with her father as a child. Running until 1 March in six towns across the country, the festival will see 37 films in the competitive section. The entries from 20 countries will compete in four categories: mountaineering, climbing, mountain nature and culture, and mountains sports and adventure. The awards will be given out on Saturday.

Visiting Ljubljana? Check out what's on this week, while all our stories on Slovenia, from newest to oldest, are here

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Check the date at the top of the page, and you can find all the "morning headlines" stories here. You can also follow us on Facebook and get all the news in your feed.

A schedule of all the main events involving Slovenia this week can be found here

This summary is provided by the STA:

Caution but not panic urged as coronavirus spreads in Italy

LJUBLJANA - As the novel coronavirus is spreading fast in neighbouring Italy, Health Minister Aleš Šabeder assured the public that there was no reason for alarm in Slovenia. Slovenia has not had any case so far expect for the couple that contracted the virus at the Diamond Princess cruise ship who are hospitalised in Japan. However, Tatjana Lejko Zupanc, the head of the UKC Ljubljana Department of Infectious Diseases, said there was little doubt that the virus would appear in Slovenia as well. The Foreign Ministry advised Slovenian citizens visiting Italy to be cautious on their return home. Those heading there are advised to check the latest situation at their chosen destination. The National Security Council secretariat is meeting Monday to discuss the situation.

SDS and LMŠ make gains in Nova24TV poll

LJUBLJANA - The Democratic Party (SDS) of Janez Janša continues to lead the field in the latest poll commissioned by the private broadcaster Nova24TV, but its margin ahead of the LMŠ party of the outgoing Prime Minister Marjan Šarec narrowed slightly over the past week as both gained ground. The SDS, which is trying to form a right-wing government after Šarec stepped down, polled at 22.4% this time, followed by the LMŠ at 16.2% and the Left at 5.4%. One out of three respondents were undecided.

Tens of thousands ravel with Kurenti in Ptuj

PTUJ/CLEVELAND, US - Tens of thousands of visitors gathered in the streets of Slovenia's oldest town to ravel with the sheepskin clad and bell ringing Kurenti at the country's largest carnival. Held for the 60th year, the Kurentovanje procession in Ptuj featured 800 Kurenti and 50 other groups of costumes and masks, including 17 from 11 foreign countries. Major carnival events were also held Cerkno and Cerknica, while the Slovenian community in Cleveland, in US wrapped up its own 8th annual Kurentovanje festival with a parade on Saturday.

Nika Križnar makes podium in Ljubno Ski Jumping World Cup event

LJUBNO OB SAVINJI - Norwegian Maren Lundby won the women's individual Ski Jumping World Cup event in Ljubno ob Savinji in the north of the country, ahead of Austrian Eva Pinkelnig and Slovenian Nika Križnar. Securing 254.8 points for her 30 career victory, Lundby narrowed her lag behind the overall World Cup leader Chiara Hölzl of Austria to a mere 26 points. Nika Križnar (250 points), secured her first podium this season to advance to 8th in overall standings.

Visiting Ljubljana? Check out what's on this week, while all our stories on Slovenia, from newest to oldest, are here

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Check the date at the top of the page, and you can find all the "morning headlines" stories here. You can also follow us on Facebook and get all the news in your feed.

A schedule of all the main events involving Slovenia this week can be found here

This summary is provided by the STA:

Počivalšek says talks with SDS to conclude soon, regardless of outcome

MARIBOR - Zdravko Počivalšek, the head of the Modern Centre Party (SMC), discussed for Večer the talks with the Democrats (SDS) on the formation of a new coalition, saying that they would be soon concluded either in the sense of an agreement or the four parties parties realising that no constructive conclusion could be made. In an interview for the Maribor-based paper, the economy minister has said that the talks, which also feature New Slovenia (NSi) and the Pensioners' Party (DeSUS), were nearing the end when it comes to the programme. Počivalšek was also asked about the collapse of the Marjan Šarec government, of which the SMC was a part, saying that the way in which the coalition had been managed was inappropriate.

Two Slovenian passengers from Diamond Princess arrive home

LJUBLJANA - Two Slovenian passengers from the quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princess were flown home on a chartered flight, touching down in Maribor after being airlifted from Japan to Germany, Andrej Šter of the Foreign Ministry told the press. The two, who will be in self-isolation at home for two weeks, were tested for the novel coronavirus at the Maribor airport, and the results were negative. They flown in from Berlin Tegel airport, to where they arrived in an Italian military aircraft from Tokyo along with citizens of seven other European countries. Of the total of six Slovenian passengers on the ship, two have tested positive and have been admitted to a hospital in Japan. Another two Slovenians had returned home earlier on a commercial flight and had been placed under a two-week quarantine after renewed tests for the virus turned out negative.

Janša wants National Security Council session over coronavirus

LJUBLJANA - The head of the Democrats (SDS) Janez Janša called on the caretaker government to call a session of the National Security Council to discuss the spreading of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Janša said on Twitter on Saturday he also expected a "crisis staff" to be established and include all who can help the cause, and effective control to be carried out on the critical entry points to Slovenia. He also said that he expected from the government to update the public on the developments related to the novel coronavirus.

Slovenia advances the most in Bloomberg Innovation Index

NEW YORK, US - Slovenia has advanced ten spots to place 21st in the 2020 Bloomberg Innovation Index, which is the greatest improvement among all 60 countries surveyed for the list. Slovenia scored a total of 73.93 points out of the 100 possible, compared to 88.21 by the first-ranked Germany, faring the best in value-added manufacturing (8th). "Big winners among 2020's ranked economies were led by Slovenia, which gained 10 spots to No. 21 on the back of a 34-tier improvement in patent activity," Bloomberg noted. Placing the highest is Germany, which has overtaken South Korea after the latter's six year streak as the most innovative nation.

FM thanks Slovenians in Sweden for preserving language, identity

STOCKHOLM, Sweden - Foreign Minister Miro Cerar attended a meeting of the Slovenian Association in Sweden as part of his working visit to the country. Cerar thanked his compatriots in Sweden for preserving the Slovenian identity and mother tongue, the Foreign Ministry said. "The Slovenian community in Sweden is one of the largest Slovenian communities in this part of Europe," the foreign minister said as he addressed the meeting. Cerar stressed that the compatriots in Sweden were key in bringing Sweden and Slovenia closer together, and expressed support to their work and promotion of Slovenia in culture, business, science and education.

Slovenia second at women's Ski Jumping World Cup team event in Ljubno

LJUBNO OB SAVINJI - The Slovenian team finished second in the Ski Jumping World Cup event for women in Ljubno ob Savinji, finishing only behind Austria, as the two-day meet at Savina Ski Jumping Centre started, with some 8,000 spectators in attendance. Nika Križnar, Špela Rogelj, Katra Komar and Ema Klinec, who led the standings after the first round, combined for a total of 1,005.1 points, while the Austrians scored 1,008.7. The second place for Slovenia repeats the success from last year. Led by Chiara Hölzl, who currently leads the World Cup standings, Austria overtook Slovenia to claim the first place, while Norway, headed by the Olympic champion Maren Lundby, were third (960.2).

Visiting Ljubljana? Check out what's on this week, while all our stories on Slovenia, from newest to oldest, are here

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