News Archive - 2013

Reality Check: End Year Deficit Projected at 15% of GDP!

31. 12. 2013
Reality Check: End Year Deficit Projected at 15% of GDP!
Slovenia's general government deficit stood at 5.5% of GDP at the end of the third quarter, up a percentage point year-on-year, but it is projected to surge by about ten percentage points as a result of the recent bank bailout, suggest figures released Monday by the Statistics Office.

Doctors cannot predict the outcome for critical Michael Schumacher

31. 12. 2013
Doctors cannot predict the outcome for critical Michael Schumacher
Michael Schumacher, one of the world’s best known high-speed sportsmen, continues his battle for life after suffering severe head injuries in a skiing accident.

Fresh Gorenje Shares Listed in Ljubljana and Warsaw

30. 12. 2013
Fresh Gorenje Shares Listed in Ljubljana and Warsaw
The shares of household appliance maker Gorenje that were issued as part of a recent EUR 17m capital increase including investors in Slovenia and Poland will be listed on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange and the Warsaw Stock Exchange on Monday.

One million US jobless to lose financial aid

30. 12. 2013
One million US jobless to lose financial aid
More than a million Americans will lose their unemployment benefits after an emergency federal programme expired on Saturday.

French jobless figures add gloom to year’s end

27. 12. 2013
French jobless figures add gloom to year's end
The November unemployment figures are out and they make grim reading for France. There were 18,500 more on the dole last month, wiping out October’s better figures, although President François Hollande says the trend is improving and new jobs are being created.

Two Millennia of Emona (Ljubljana) to Be Marked in 2014

27. 12. 2013
Two Millennia of Emona (Ljubljana) to Be Marked in 2014
It will be exactly two thousand years in 2014 since the Roman settlement Emona, on which present-day Ljubljana was built, was founded. The jubilee will be marked with numerous events, including three major exhibitions.

Stormy weather disrupts Christmas getaway for thousands

24. 12. 2013
Stormy weather disrupts Christmas getaway for thousands
Much of Western Europe faces a stormy Christmas with high winds, heavy rain and flooding.

Bad Bank Bonds to Start Trading Friday

24. 12. 2013
Bad Bank Bonds to Start Trading Friday
Bonds of the Bank Asset Management Company (BAMC) to the value of EUR 1.01bn will be listed on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange on Tuesday. Since the market is closed on Tuesday, trading in the state-guaranteed bonds will start after Christmas holidays on Friday.

Khodorkovsky to campaign for political prisoners

23. 12. 2013
Khodorkovsky to campaign for political prisoners
Former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky is to become a dissident in exile.

Layoffs at Helios Before Arrival of New Owner

23. 12. 2013
Layoffs at Helios Before Arrival of New Owner
Coatings maker Helios, the first from the list of 15 companies slated for privatisation to have been sold, is facing first layoffs even before the new owner, Austria's Ring International, has taken over.

Major Police Operation Targeting Corruption in Healthcare

20. 12. 2013
Major Police Operation Targeting Corruption in Healthcare
A massive police operation targeting corruption in public healthcare is under way across Slovenia. The police said that dozens of house searches are being conducted, with as many as 13 suspects detained for questioning.

Microsoft: Former manager charged for insider trading

20. 12. 2013
Microsoft: Former manager charged for insider trading
A former Microsoft manager Brian Jorgenson, and his friend Sean Stokke, have been charged for insider trading by the US securities regulator.

Sava Sells Bled Golf Course

19. 12. 2013
Sava Sells Bled Golf Course
Sava Turizem has sold the Bled golf course, the country's oldest and largest, to Gerrard Enterprises, which is the founder of the Eligo golf course group and is headed by Serbian businessman Dragan Šolak.

EU ministers agree a deal on how to close problem banks

19. 12. 2013
EU ministers agree a deal on how to close problem banks
European Union leaders are set to sign off on a banking union deal at today’s summit in Brussels after eurozone finance ministers agreed on a major reform late Wednesday night.

National Geopraphic photo exhibit in Tivoli Park

18. 12. 2013
National Geopraphic photo exhibit in Tivoli Park
A new exhibition in Ljubljana's Tivoli Park shows National Geograhic photos from Slovenia and the USA.

General Motors names Mary Barra as new boss

18. 12. 2013
General Motors names Mary Barra as new boss
US car giant General Motors (GM) has named product development chief Mary Barra to the post of chief executive.

Merkel set to begin third term as German Chancellor

17. 12. 2013
Merkel set to begin third term as German Chancellor
Angela Merkel will be sworn in as German Chancellor for a third term.

FinMin Meeting Investors, Credit Rating Firms in London

17. 12. 2013
FinMin Meeting Investors, Credit Rating Firms in London
Finance Minister Uroš Čufer will meet representatives of investors and credit rating firms in London on Tuesday to present the country's plans on bank restructuring, which is to start in short, following the release of bank stress tests last week. Later in the day he will attend an EU financial ministerial in Brussels.

Slovenians More Rational in Buying Gifts

16. 12. 2013
Slovenians More Rational in Buying Gifts
Slovenians have become increasingly rational when it comes to shopping for gifts, a survey by GfK Slovenija has found. More and more people are deciding to give gift vouchers and are very careful not to spend more than planned on individual gifts. An increasing number of Slovenian consumers are also buying gifts on-line.

Tankan: Japanese business mood rises to six-year high

16. 12. 2013
Tankan: Japanese business mood rises to six-year high
Japanese business confidence has soared to its highest level in six years, according to the Bank of Japan's latest Tankan survey.

EU-Ukraine trade deal could go ahead

13. 12. 2013
EU-Ukraine trade deal could go ahead
The EU has held out a promise of more financial aid for Ukraine, if it signs a trade pact.

Slovenian Scientists First to Create Magnetic Liquid Crystal

13. 12. 2013
Slovenian Scientists First to Create Magnetic Liquid Crystal
Slovenian scientists have succeed in creating a magnetic liquid crystal, becoming the first in the world to do so after more than 40 years of unsuccessful attempts, an article published on Thursday in the acclaimed British magazine Nature shows.

D Day for Slovenia: Results of Stress Tests to be Released

12. 12. 2013
D Day for Slovenia: Results of Stress Tests to be Released
The results of stress tests and asset quality review of ten Slovenian banks will be disclosed on Thursday. Preliminary estimates suggest the banks face a shortfall of between four and five billion euros, an amount that would allow Slovenia to bail out its banks without international aid.

Pope Francis named Time Magazine's Person of the Year

12. 12. 2013
Pope Francis named Time Magazine
Pope Francis has been named Person of the Year by Time magazine.

Ptujska Klet Named Best Slovenian Wine Cellar

11. 12. 2013
Ptujska Klet Named Best Slovenian Wine Cellar
Ptujska klet, the oldest wine cellar in Slovenia, has been awarded the title of the best wine cellar in Slovenia at the top international wine competition AWC Vienna. Its director Vinko Mandl said at a press conference on Tuesday this was the result of investments in the last ten years.

Bayer Leverkusen and Olympiakos win to secure Champions League qualification

11. 12. 2013
Bayer Leverkusen and Olympiakos win to secure Champions League qualification
Bayer Leverkusen and Olympiakos are both through to the next round of the Champions League.

Bank Bailout Scenario is Very Clear

10. 12. 2013
Bank Bailout Scenario is Very Clear
Once the results of the bank stress tests and asset quality review are released, it is expected that subsequent procedures will unravel within just a few days. The steps will depend on the current status of banks.

Putin amnesty may free Greenpeace 30 and Pussy Riot

10. 12. 2013
Putin amnesty may free Greenpeace 30 and Pussy Riot
An amnesty drafted by Russian President Vladimir Putin could free the two jailed Pussy Riot protesters and the Greenpeace Arctic 30 campaigners.

Greece sees end of recession in 2014 with new budget

09. 12. 2013
Greece sees end of recession in 2014 with new budget
Greek lawmakers have passed the 2014 budget, which predicts a return to growth after six straight years of painful recession.

Finance Minister Briefing Eurogroup About Banking System

09. 12. 2013
Finance Minister Briefing Eurogroup About Banking System
Finance Minister Čufer will attend in Brussels on Monday meeting of the Eurogroup dedicated to the aid programmes for Greece, Ireland and Cyprus. Čufer will brief his counterparts on Slovenia's activities regarding the banks as the country gears up for the release of bank asset quality review results.

Nelson Mandela death: South Africa and world mourn

06. 12. 2013
Nelson Mandela death: South Africa and world mourn
South Africans have gathered in Johannesburg and Soweto to mourn their former leader, Nelson Mandela, who died on Thursday aged 95.

Slovenia Not to Renegotiate South Stream Deal for Now

06. 12. 2013
Slovenia Not to Renegotiate South Stream Deal for Now
The government said it has no intention to renegotiate the bilateral deal with Russia on the construction of the Slovenian section of the South Stream pipeline for now as it has not yet received an official answer from the European Commission to an invitation to a meeting to discuss the latest developments.

Central Bank Responds to Speculation About Stress Tests

05. 12. 2013
Central Bank Responds to Speculation About Stress Tests
The Slovenian central bank responded to mounting rumours about what the announcement of the results of stress tests at eight Slovenian banks would bring, saying that banks will continue to operate normally once the results are released.

Obama: Growing income inequality threat to “American dream”

05. 12. 2013
Obama: Growing income inequality threat to “American dream”
In a landmark speech on the state of the US economy and society, US President Barack Obama on Wednesday warned against the dangers of a growing income inequality, an increasing gap between rich and poor, and a shrinking economic mobility in America.

Protesters call for strikes and blockades as crisis deepens in Ukraine

04. 12. 2013
Protesters call for strikes and blockades as crisis deepens in Ukraine
Ukraine opposition leaders are calling for a general strike after their parliamentary allies failed to topple the government in a vote of no confidence.

PM Bratušek to Meet French President

04. 12. 2013
PM Bratušek to Meet French President
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek will continue her two-day visit to France on Wednesday by meeting President Francois Hollande and attending a business conference at which she will present investment opportunities in Slovenia to French companies.

Slovenia Slides Six Spots in Corruption Perception Ranking

03. 12. 2013
Slovenia Slides Six Spots in Corruption Perception Ranking
Slovenia slid six places in the 2013 Corruption Perception Index compiled by the Berlin-based NGO Transparency International (TI). Slovenia ranks 43rd among the 177 countries surveyed and is one of those that have seen the biggest drop over the past year, the Slovenian branch of the TI, Integriteta, has said.

Saab 9-3 comes back two years after bankruptcy

03. 12. 2013
Saab 9-3 comes back two years after bankruptcy
The new owners of Swedish car maker Saab have restarted production two years after the firm went out of business.

Search for New Ministerial Candidates Begins

02. 12. 2013
Search for New Ministerial Candidates Begins
The search for ministerial candidates following the resignation of Economy Minister and Health Minister is expected to start this week. PM Bratušek is said to be planning to meet the candidate for economy minister in the second half of the week, with media mostly mentioning Alenka Avberšek of the GZS.

Saab to resume making cars in Sweden

02. 12. 2013
Saab to resume making cars in Sweden
Saab will restart production on Monday as the firm's new owners look to get the carmaker back on track.

Figures for Q3 GDP, November Inflation to Be Published

29. 11. 2013
Figures for Q3 GDP, November Inflation to Be Published
The Statistics Office will present on Friday GDP data for the third quarter of 2013. In the second quarter, Slovenia's GDP contracted by 1.7% year-on-year, and it is believed that the negative trend continued in the third quarter. Survey unemployment for the same period as well as November inflation will also be published.

EU summit shows no sign of reviving Ukraine deal

29. 11. 2013
EU summit shows no sign of reviving Ukraine deal
European leaders appear to have made no progress on reviving a landmark trade pact with Ukraine at the first day of an EU summit in Vilnius.

Germany: the cost of coalition

28. 11. 2013
Germany: the cost of coalition
Two months after winning an absolute majority in elections, the outcome of a final 17-hour round of negotiating has finally allowed Christian Democrat Chancellor Angela Merkel to sign a programme for her next four years in government banded together with the Social Democrats.

New Insolvency legislation for Faster Deleveraging of Economy

28. 11. 2013
New Insolvency legislation for Faster Deleveraging of Economy
The National Assembly passed on Wednesday changes to insolvency legislation which aim to help distressed companies reduce their debt burdens before the need arises to formally declare insolvency.

German coalition: Merkel's party reaches deal with SPD

27. 11. 2013
German coalition: Merkel's party reaches deal with SPD
German Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives have agreed terms for a coalition with the centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), officials say.

Pensioners Want Government Shuffle, New Coalition Agreement

27. 11. 2013
Pensioners Want Government Shuffle, New Coalition Agreement
Head of the coalition Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) Karl Erjavec said Tuesday that he expects a new coalition agreement for the 2013-2015 period and a government shuffle which will see head of the Social Democrats (SD) Igor Lukšič assume a cabinet post.

PM Bratušek Attending China-CEE Summit

26. 11. 2013
PM Bratušek Attending China-CEE Summit
PM Alenka Bratušek will take part in Bucharest in a meeting of prime ministers from Central and Eastern Europe with their Chinese counterpart Li Keqiang to debate closer ties. A separate meeting with Li is scheduled, apart from meetings with the Bulgarian, Hungarian and Romanian prime ministers.

Ukraine: EU protest clashes as Tymoshenko starts hunger strike

26. 11. 2013
Ukraine: EU protest clashes as Tymoshenko starts hunger strike
There have been increasingly ugly scenes in Ukraine as pro-EU protesters and police clashed in the centre of Kyiv.

Among award winners European green office also Aerodrom Ljubljana

25. 11. 2013
Among award winners European green office also Aerodrom Ljubljana
Aerodrom Ljubljana is one of the winners of European green office award. The ceremony was in Brussels on Friday, 22nd of Novenber.

Bilberry Liqueur Taking Over Foreign Markets

25. 11. 2013
Bilberry Liqueur Taking Over Foreign Markets
A bilberry liqueur made by a small Slovenian company has recently won the Spirits Business Master 2013 award for best liqueur given out by the London-based Spirit Business magazine.

The economic times they are a changin’

25. 11. 2013
The economic times they are a changin’
The largest bank in the US officially reached an agreement with the authorities. JP Morgan will pay 13 billion dollars, the biggest fine ever recorded, to clear civil charges over the toxic mortgages it was selling. The same financial products that, eventually, led to the global crisis.

Fmr. Diners Boss to Be Released on Record Bail

22. 11. 2013
Fmr. Diners Boss to Be Released on Record Bail
The former owner of the Diners Club franchise for Slovenia, Tomaž Lovše, will be released on bail after spending more than three months in detention due to flight risk, news portals 24ur.com and siol.net reported on Thursday.

Portuguese police protest at parliament over cuts

22. 11. 2013
Portuguese police protest at parliament over cuts
Several thousand off-duty Portuguese police officers have demonstrated on the steps of parliament against cuts.

Economy Minister Stepišnik Resigns

21. 11. 2013
Economy Minister Stepišnik Resigns
Stanko Stepišnik stepped down as economy minister on Wednesday in the wake of an uproar against tool maker EMO Orodjarna, partly owned by the minister, vying for subsidies handed out by the Economic Development and Technology Ministry.

Messi wins Golden Boot

21. 11. 2013
Messi wins Golden Boot
Barcelona striker Lionel Messi was presented with his third Golden Boot award on Wednesday after finishing with the most league goals in Europe last season.

Big money for big aircraft as Airbus and Boeing woo big spenders in Dubai

20. 11. 2013
Big money for big aircraft as Airbus and Boeing woo big spenders in Dubai
Boeing and Airbus are in a battle for orders at the Dubai Air Show as the Gulf’s major airlines continue to spend big money on big aircraft.

Slovenian and Croatian Foreign Ministers Meeting Over LB Issue Again

20. 11. 2013
Slovenian and Croatian Foreign Ministers Meeting Over LB Issue Again
Slovenian and Croatian Foreign Ministers Karl Erjavec and Vesna Pusić will meet in Zagreb on Wednesday to again discuss the LB bank Yugoslav-era savings deposits issue, which has recently somewhat soured relations between the two countries.

Sardinia hit by deadly cyclone and flooding

19. 11. 2013
Sardinia hit by deadly cyclone and flooding
At least 14 people have been killed after a cyclone, accompanied by heavy rains, tore through the Italian island of Sardinia.

Slovenian Book Fair Opens in Ljubljana

19. 11. 2013
Slovenian Book Fair Opens in Ljubljana
The 29th Slovenian Book Fair, the largest publishing event in the country, will kick off in Cankarjev dom on Tuesday. A total of 100 exhibitors will present over 1,500 new titles and the organisers expect 30,000 visitors over five days.

Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix

18. 11. 2013
Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix
The jury of the 13th Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) unveiled its prize list on the evening of Friday November 15th 2013.

Parliament Opens November With "Tough" Questions For Govt

18. 11. 2013
Parliament Opens November With
The National Assembly will open the November plenary with questions time on Monday, as part of which Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek will answer MP questions about the country's economic outlook and the effects of the real estate tax.

A solar panel on every home?

18. 11. 2013
A solar panel on every home
In mid-2011, Australian homeowner Rowan Ford equipped his home for solar energy.

German ex-President Wulff goes on trial over 'favours'

15. 11. 2013
German ex-President Wulff goes on trial over
Former German President Christian Wulff has gone on trial accused of receiving and granting favours in office.

Krka Reports 12% Jump in 9-Month Profit

15. 11. 2013
Krka Reports 12% Jump in 9-Month Profit
Pharma group Krka made a net profit of EUR 124.9m through the first three quarters of the year, a 12% rise over the same period last year, on the back of EUR 857.8m in revenues.

Slovenia Raises Three-Times Planned Amount with T-Bill Issue

14. 11. 2013
Slovenia Raises Three-Times Planned Amount with T-Bill Issue
Slovenia raised just over EUR 100m with the issue of 6-month and 12-month treasury bills Tuesday, said the Finance Ministry, which had planned to raise EUR 30m.

French economy contracts by 0.1%

14. 11. 2013
French economy contracts by 0.1%
The French economy contracted in the third quarter of the year and the German economy slowed, latest official figures show.

Opposition File Motion to Oust Interior Minister

13. 11. 2013
Opposition File Motion to Oust Interior Minister
The opposition New Slovenia (NSi), Democrats (SDS), and People's Party (SLS) filed Tuesday a motion to oust Interior Minister Gregor Virant, accusing him of "harming Slovenia" with his conduct.

Starbucks to pay $3bn in row over packaged coffee

13. 11. 2013
Starbucks to pay $3bn in row over packaged coffee
An independent US arbitrator has told Starbucks to pay $2.76bn (£1.74bn) in damages and other costs to Kraft Foods in a dispute over packaged coffee.

Clashes mar Poland independence march

12. 11. 2013
Clashes mar Poland independence march
Polish police have fired rubber bullets and tear gas to break up violent clashes during an independence day march in the capital Warsaw.

PM Bratušek in Paris for Youth Employment Conference

12. 11. 2013
PM Bratušek in Paris for Youth Employment Conference
Slovenian Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek is due in Paris on Tuesday for a high-profile EU conference discussing ways to boost employment of young people through EU and national measures in education, training, labour market and incentives in support of small and medium-sized businesses.

Warsaw prepares to host fresh global climate talks

11. 11. 2013
Warsaw prepares to host fresh global climate talks
Delegates from almost 200 nations will begin talks in the Polish capital, Warsaw, on Monday to prepare for a global summit on a UN climate pact.

Slovenia Sends Response Regarding Border Dispute

11. 11. 2013
http://www.sloveniatimes.com/slovenia-sends-response-regarding-border-dispute-to-the-hague
Monday, 11 November, is the deadline by which Slovenia and Croatia must send to the Hague-based arbitration tribunal their response to the other's arguments regarding the disputed parts of the state border on the basis of which the tribunal will take a relevant decision.

Slovenia Observes Holiday of Wine

08. 11. 2013
Slovenia Observes Holiday of Wine
Slovenia will celebrate St. Martin's Day this weekend, a holiday when, according to tradition, unfermented grape juice turns into wine. Observed with gatherings of families and friends, the holiday focuses on celebrating a successful wine harvest.

Twitter shares jump on market debut

08. 11. 2013
Twitter shares jump on market debut
Twitter shares jump on market debut

Sochi Olympic torch blasts off into space

07. 11. 2013
Sochi Olympic torch blasts off into space
A torch for the Sochi Winter Olympics has blasted off into space - as part of efforts to showcase next year's games in Russia.

Bank Stress Tests Methodology Revealed

07. 11. 2013
Bank Stress Tests Methodology Revealed
Stress tests that are currently being conducted at ten Slovenian banks comprise three elements; a comprehensive asset quality review (AQR), bottom up stress tests and top down challenge, the central bank revealed late Wednesday.

Giant cruise liners to be banned from Venice

06. 11. 2013
Giant cruise liners to be banned from Venice
Italy is to ban giant cruise ships from coming to Venice.

Bad Bank Ready For Toxic Loans Transfer by December

06. 11. 2013
Bad Bank Ready For Toxic Loans Transfer by December
The Bank Asset Management Company (BAMC), Slovenia's bad bank, will be ready once the European Commission gives the green light for the transfer of toxic assets from the banks, BAMC interim director Torbjörn Mansson told the daily Delo.

Swiss refiner Argor accused of laundering DRC gold

05. 11. 2013
Swiss refiner Argor accused of laundering DRC gold
A major Swiss gold refiner is being investigated on suspicion of money laundering linked to the processing of gold allegedly looted from DR Congo.

LIFFE coming to Ljubljana

05. 11. 2013
LIFFE coming to Ljubljana
For the 24th time now, Ljubljana is hosting the international film festival LIFFE, starting on the 6th of November and lasting until the 17th of this month.

Slovenia 24th Most Prosperous Country

04. 11. 2013
Slovenia 24th Most Prosperous Country
Slovenia has retained 24th place on the latest Legatum Prosperity Index, which gauges the wealth and wellbeing of 142 countries.Slovenia has retained 24th place on the latest Legatum Prosperity Index, which gauges the wealth and wellbeing of 142 countries.

China's service sector growth hits one-year high

04. 11. 2013
China's service sector growth hits one-year high
China's service sector grew at its fastest pace in a year in October, the latest sign of a recovery in the world's second-largest economy.

Reformation Day to Be Marked in Slovenia

30. 10. 2013
Reformation Day to Be Marked in Slovenia
Reformation Day, a bank holiday in honour of the 16th-century Reformation and Protestant movement, which brought Slovenians their first books, will be marked in Slovenia tomorrow. The main ceremony, organised by the Protestant Association Primož Trubar, will be held in Kranj tonight, with PM Bratušek delivering the keynote.

Does a full moon make people mad?

30. 10. 2013
Does a full moon make people mad?
Belief in the Moon’s power over us is widespread, and the basis of the word lunacy. Claudia Hammond examines whether science can shed any light on the ancient myth.

Russia: Putin says gay athletes and visitors welcome at Sochi games

29. 10. 2013
Russia: Putin says gay athletes and visitors welcome at Sochi games
Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been accused of discrimination against homosexuals by his critics, said gay athletes and visitors would be welcome in Sochi for the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Parliament to Adopt Additional Economic Stabilisation Measures

29. 10. 2013
Parliament to Adopt Additional Economic Stabilisation Measures
Parliament is expected to pass amendments to the banking act and to the income tax act as it wraps up the October plenary on Tuesday.

Poland's former PM Tadeusz Mazowiecki dies aged 86

28. 10. 2013
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-24700801
Poland's first prime minister after the fall of communism, Tadeusz Mazowiecki, has died aged 86, Polish media report.

Ethiopia's Mulugeta Wins 18th Ljubljana Marathon

28. 10. 2013
http://www.sloveniatimes.com/ethiopia-s-mulugeta-wins-18th-ljubljana-marathon
Wami Mulugeta of Ethiopia won the 18th Ljubljana Marathon on Sunday, finishing the 42-kilometre race in 2 hours 10 minutes and 26 seconds. Caroline Chepkwony of Kenya (2:27:27) was meanwhile the winner among the women runners.

Greenland awards London Mining huge iron ore project

25. 10. 2013
Greenland awards London Mining huge iron ore project
Greenland has awarded UK-based company London Mining a 30-year licence to build and run a giant iron ore mine.

Super Tax Passes First Reading in Parliament

25. 10. 2013
Super Tax Passes First Reading in Parliament
The National Assembly decided unanimously on Thursday at first reading that changes to the tax procedures act, as part of which the government wants to introduce a super tax as a means of fighting undeclared income, are fit for further debate in parliament.

German Chancellor calls Obama over NSA phone tapping

24. 10. 2013
German Chancellor calls Obama over NSA phone tapping
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called President Obama to demand an explanation after hearing that her mobile phone may have been tapped by US intelligence services.

Bratušek to Attend EU Summit, No Major Decisions Expected

24. 10. 2013
Bratušek to Attend EU Summit, No Major Decisions Expected
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek will be among the EU leaders who will discuss in Brussels on Thursday and Friday the banking union, youth unemployment, digital challenges and refugee deaths in the Mediterranean. No breaking news is expected at the meeting, which is considered a bridge to the December summit.

Privatisation of Airport Ljubljana Operator Started

23. 10. 2013
Privatisation of Airport Ljubljana Operator Started
The privatisation of airport operator Aerodrom Ljubljana has been officially launched as shareholders holding 73.34% of the stock have signed a shareholder agreement and the state-run SOD fund has started the selection of a financial adviser.

Resume or CV? A global guide

23. 10. 2013
Resume or CV? A global guide
You live and work in New York City, but you're applying for a job in Brussels. Is it enough to send along the standard resume you use for applications in your home country?

French President Hollande berates US over spying claims

22. 10. 2013
French President Hollande berates US over spying claims
French President Francois Hollande has expressed "deep disapproval" over claims the US National Security Agency secretly tapped phone calls in France.

Defence Minister Jakič to Attend Discussions on Future of NATO

22. 10. 2013
Defence Minister Jakič to Attend Discussions on Future of NATO
Defence Minister Roman Jakič will take part in a meeting of NATO defence ministers in Brussels on Tuesday and Wednesday dedicated to the future of the alliance, including plans for next year's summit.

Tito’s widow dies

21. 10. 2013
Tito’s widow dies
Jovanka Broz, the woman who spent three decades as Yugoslavia’s First Lady, but more recently holed up in a crumbling house in isolation and near penury, has died at the age of 88.

Start-up Culture in Focus of Internet Week

21. 10. 2013
Start-up Culture in Focus of Internet Week
The first Internet Week Ljubljana, a festival organised by the Slovenian internet community, will get underway on Monday with the aim of promoting information technology and the start-up culture in Slovenia.

Ukraine: Parliament holds Tymoshenko’s fate in its hands

18. 10. 2013
Ukraine: Parliament holds Tymoshenko fate in its hands
In the biggest step yet towards the release of former opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko, the Ukrainian president has moved responsibility for a potential new draft law onto parliament’s shoulders.

Pensioner´s Party Not on Board Real Estate Tax in Current Form

18. 10. 2013
Pensioner´s Party Not on Board Real Estate Tax in Current Form
Leader of the coalition Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) Karl Erjavec said he did not support the real estate tax as proposed in the bill adopted by the government on Thursday. He said the final decision will be up to the executive committee of the party.

France tries Norway Neo-Nazi Kristian 'Varg' Vikernes

17. 10. 2013
France tries Norway Neo-Nazi Kristian 'Varg' Vikernes
A Norwegian neo-Nazi musician arrested by French authorities in July on suspicion of planning a terrorist act is due to go on trial in Paris.

Govt Expected to Adopt Real Estate Tax

17. 10. 2013
Govt Expected to Adopt Real Estate Tax
The government is expected to adopt on Thursday the bill introducing the much debated real estate tax. The Finance Ministry has not revealed the exact contents of the bill as talks with different stakeholders were conducted until late on Wednesday.

A New Image for Ljubljana’s Main Street

16. 10. 2013
A New Image for Ljubljana’s Main Street
For many years we have been provoking public curiosity around the redevelopment of Slovenska Street, currently a noisy and polluted traffic corridor, which should contribute to a better quality city centre area. A group of experts have been trying, for more than a year, to design a redevelopment proposal that meets the expectations of those who keep an eye on the renovation of the city centre. This process includes different, but closely linked, forms of architectural, landscape, traffic, environmental, economic and social renovation of the most densely populated and representative part of the city.

Ireland is to close a tax loophole used by Apple

16. 10. 2013
Ireland is to close a tax loophole used by Apple
Ireland plans to shut a tax arrangement used by Apple to shelter $40bn (£25bn) from taxation.

Cameron pledges to confront EU on red tape

15. 10. 2013
Cameron pledges to confront EU on red tape
David Cameron has said he will take the fight on red tape to the EU after a report by business leaders found it is costing UK firms billions of pounds.

Slovenia Upgrading Military Airbase

15. 10. 2013
Slovenia Upgrading Military Airbase
Defence Minister Roman Jakič signed a contract with a consortium of local construction companies on Monday for upgrading Slovenia's sole military airport at Cerklje ob Krki with an apron. The upgrade, allowing the airbase to serve for NATO support, will cost EUR 8.3m, which is to be covered fully by NATO

New Real Estate Valuations Expected Today

14. 10. 2013
New Real Estate Valuations Expected Today
The Surveying and Mapping Authority (GURS) is expected to release new, lower, notional values of real estate for the entire country on Monday. The figures will be crucial, for they will be used for calculation of the new real estate tax.

Italy steps up migrant boat patrols after tragedies

14. 10. 2013
Italy steps up migrant boat patrols after tragedies
Italy is stepping up sea and air patrols following the deaths of hundreds of migrants sailing in overcrowded boats from North Africa.

Lampedusa toll at 311 as Italy divers finish boat search

11. 10. 2013
Lampedusa toll at 311 as Italy divers finish boat search
Italian divers say they have finished searching a boat that sank carrying migrants from Africa, as the death toll from the accident reached 311.

Ljubljana Mayor Charged over Land Plot Sale

11. 10. 2013
Ljubljana Mayor Charged over Land Plot Sale
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has filed criminal complaints against three officials of the Ljubljana City Municipality, including Mayor Zoran Janković, over a 2009 sale of land plots in Ljubljana, commercial POP TV reported

2012 Bad Year for Slovenian Agriculture

10. 10. 2013
2012 Bad Year for Slovenian Agriculture
A comprehensive report on the state of Slovenian agriculture presented to the parliamentary Agriculture Committee on Wednesday shows that the favourable trends from 2010 and 2011 reversed last year, as overall output of agricultural products dropped by 10%.

Juno: The spacecraft putting sling theory to the test

10. 10. 2013
Juno: The spacecraft putting sling theory to the test
Why a probe passing our planet on its way to Jupiter might end a decades-old mystery, and reveal something completely new about gravity.

Serbia launches sweeping austerity measures to avoid bankruptcy

09. 10. 2013
Serbia launches sweeping austerity measures to avoid bankruptcy
Serbia’s government has announced a raft of sweeping austerity measures which it says are necessary to avoid going bankrupt.

Luka Koper With New Supervisors, Chairman's Fate Unclear

09. 10. 2013
Luka Koper With New Supervisors, Chairman
The shareholders of Luka Koper backed on Monday the proposal of the state-run SOD fund to appoint five new supervisors at the port operator following the contentious appointment of Gašpar Gašpar Mišič as CEO.

Budgets for 2014&2015 in the Parliament

08. 10. 2013
Budgets for 2014&2015 in the Parliament
The National Assembly will convene an extraordinary session Tuesday in what will be the start of parliamentary scrutiny of the 2014-2015 budgets. The budget documents will be presented by Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek and Finance Minister Uroš Čufer.

Egg-sized diamond sells for record $30.8m in Hong Kong

08. 10. 2013
Egg-sized diamond sells for record $30.8m in Hong Kong
A white diamond the size and shape of a small egg has sold for a record $30.8m (£19.1m) at auction in Hong Kong.

Olympic flame arrives in Russia ahead of Sochi winter games

07. 10. 2013
Olympic flame arrives in Russia
The Olympic flame has arrived in Russia ahead of the winter games in Sochi next February.

Month of Design Starts in Ljubljana

07. 10. 2013
Month of Design Starts in Ljubljana
The 10th Month of Design Ljubljana will begin at publisher Mladinska knjiga's printing house and the former Merkur store on Dunajska street on Monday, bringing more than 30 exhibitions, conferences and other events. An award ceremony for achievements in design will start the festival.

Portugal passes latest eurozone bailout test

04. 10. 2013
Portugal passes latest eurozone bailout test
Representatives from the International Monetary Fund, the European Commission and the European Central Bank have approved Portugal's economic progress.

Slovenian Company to Decorate Kremlin for Holiday Season

04. 10. 2013
Slovenian Company to Decorate Kremlin for Holiday Season
Holiday decorations by Slovenian company Pro-Mak will adorn the offices of Russian President Vladimir Putin this holiday season. Pro-Mak was given the honour after its pavilion was proclaimed the most beautiful at Russia's biggest decorations fair.

Ambient Furniture Fair Underlines Role of Wood Industry

03. 10. 2013
Ambient Furniture Fair Underlines Role of Wood Industry
Speakers at the Ambient furniture fair, which runs from Tuesday to Sunday in Ljubljana, have underscored the role of the wood and furniture industry for exiting the economic crisis. Several awards have also been given out at the fair, which features 209 furniture makers from 21 countries.

US shutdown: Barack Obama warns of default danger

03. 10. 2013
US shutdown: Barack Obama warns of default danger
US President Barack Obama has warned that Wall Street should be concerned that a conservative faction of Republicans is willing to allow the country to default on its debt.

Crunch day for Enrico Letta as the Italy PM prepares for confidence vote

02. 10. 2013
Crunch day for Enrico Letta as the Italy PM prepares for confidence vote
The stage is set in the Italian Senate for a day of drama in the latest political crisis to engulf the country.

Minority Hails Election of Ethnic Slovenian to Austrian Parliament

02. 10. 2013
Minority Hails Election of Ethnic Slovenian to Austrian Parliament
The umbrella organisations of the Slovenian minority in Austria's Carinthia have welcomed the election of minority member Angelika Mlinar to the federal parliament on Sunday, stressing that it was the first time the minority would have representatives both in the provincial and federal parliament.

September Inflation Drops to 1.4%

01. 10. 2013
September Inflation Drops to 1.4%
Slovenia's annual inflation rate plunged to 1.4% in September from 2.2% in August, as prices increased 0.3% at the monthly level largely due to the end of seasonal footwear and clothing sales, the Statistics Office said Monday.

Will we ever... live in underwater cities?

01. 10. 2013
Will we ever... live in underwater cities?
Living below the sea is possible, at least for a short time. So what is stopping us creating colonies to ease over-population, or guard against disasters?

Telecommunications Revenues Dropped in 2012

30. 09. 2013
Telecommunications Revenues Dropped in 2012
Revenues from electronic communication in Slovenia in 2012 dropped to EUR 1.21bn, which was 1% or EUR 18m lower than the year before, according to the data released by the Statistics Office. Investments in the sector on the other hand grew by 44% or EUR 53m to EUR 173m.

A Point of View: Putting a price on love

30. 09. 2013
A Point of View: Putting a price on love
Our loved ones are worth more to us than gold - but do we understand love's true value, asks AL Kennedy.

Slovenia Warned about Banks and Structural Reform in EU Report

27. 09. 2013
Slovenia Warned about Banks and Structural Reform in EU Report
The European Commission warned Slovenia about the weakness of its banking sector and the need to introduce structural measures in its annual Competitiveness Report released in Brussels on Wednesday. In terms of the competitiveness of its industry, Slovenia has been placed in the middle tier.

Spain to discuss time change to improve productivity

27. 09. 2013
Spain to discuss time change to improve productivity
A parliamentary commission in Spain looks set to approve a report suggesting the country switches its time zone back in line with that of Britain.

Human Rights to Dominate President's UN Speech

26. 09. 2013
Human Rights to Dominate President's UN Speech
President Borut Pahor is expected to highlight human rights in his address to the UN General Assembly on Thursday as Slovenia bids for membership of the UN Human Rights Council in 2016-2018.

Europe's key animals 'making a comeback'

26. 09. 2013
Europe
Some of Europe's key animals have made a comeback over the past 50 years, a report suggests.

Greenpeace activists held in Russia

25. 09. 2013
Greenpeace activists held in Russia
Russian coastguards have taken 30 Greenpeace activists off their ship in the Arctic and detained them in the port of Murmansk.

Prime Minister Congratulates Merkel on Election Win

25. 09. 2013
Prime Minister Congratulates Merkel on Election Win
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek congratulated on Monday German Chancellor Angela Merkel on her party, the Christian Democratic Union, winning Sunday's parliamentary election in Germany. Congratulations also came from the opposition Democratic Party (SDS) and New Slovenia (NSi).

Govt to Present Consolidation Measures to Employers&Unions

24. 09. 2013
Govt to Present Consolidation Measures to Employers&Unions
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek and Finance Minister will present to trade unions and employers on Tuesday a set of measures to consolidate public finances. She is also to discuss the measures proposed by the unions and the public sector

FA says Istanbul is 'front runner' for Euro 2020 semi-finals and final

24. 09. 2013
FA says Istanbul is 'front runner' for Euro 2020 semi-finals and final
The Football Association believes Istanbul is the "front runner" to host the semi-finals and final of Euro 2020.

President Pahor in New York for UN General Debate

23. 09. 2013
President Pahor in New York for UN General Debate
President Borut Pahor will start a four-day visit to New York on Monday to take part in the general debate of the 68th session of the UN General Assembly.

Angela Merkel celebrates after German election win

23. 09. 2013
Angela Merkel celebrates after German election win
Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservative party has won Germany's election, but finished just short of an absolute majority, official results show.

Pope Francis: Church too focused on gays and abortion

20. 09. 2013
Pope Francis: Church too focused on gays and abortion
Pope Francis has said the Catholic Church is too focused on preaching about abortion, gay people and contraception and needs to become more merciful.

Govt Adjusts Property Values Ahead of Real Estate Tax

20. 09. 2013
Govt Adjusts Property Values Ahead of Real Estate Tax
The government confirmed Thursday proposed adjustments to the value of real estate in the database of the Surveying and Mapping Authority (GURS) which will serve as the basis for calculating the proposed real estate tax. Due to the ongoing real estate slump, property values will be reduced by 10-30%.

Opposition Attacking Finance Minister

18. 09. 2013
Opposition Attacking Finance Minister
The opposition Democrats (SDS) are mulling an interpellation motion against Finance Minister Uroš Čufer, the first attempt to oust a minister in the Alenka Bratušek government. He is being targeted due to the dismissal of a senior SDS member from the board of the bad bank.

Slovenia Ranked in Middle of EU Innovation Scoreboard

18. 09. 2013
Slovenia Ranked in Middle of EU Innovation Scoreboard
Slovenia is below the EU average in terms of innovation output, though it ranks squarely in the middle of the rankings, at 14th, according to a new indicator unveiled by the European Commission on Friday.

Slovenia with 5.9% Drop in Labour Costs in Q2

17. 09. 2013
Slovenia with 5.9% Drop in Labour Costs in Q2
Slovenia saw the biggest drop in labour costs per hour in the entire EU in the second quarter of 2013, which makes it two quarters in a row. In Slovenia the drop was 5.9% compared to the same period in 2012, while labour costs per hour were up by 0.9% on average both in the eurozone and in the EU

Costa Concordia in Italy freed from rocks

17. 09. 2013
Costa Concordia in Italy freed from rocks
Engineering officials in Italy say they have succeeded in lifting the cruise ship Costa Concordia free of rocks, 20 months after it ran aground.

President Pahor Receives Qatari Minister

16. 09. 2013
President Pahor Receives Qatari Minister
President Borut Pahor received on Friday Qatari Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Ghaith bin Mubarak Al Kuwari on the eve of the laying of a foundation stone in Ljubljana for the first mosque in Slovenia. Qatar is the biggest donor for the mosque that is expected to cost EUR 21m.

France welcomes Syria deal but force 'still an option'

16. 09. 2013
France welcomes Syria deal but force
French President Francois Hollande has described the US-Russia deal on Syria's chemical weapons as an "important step" towards the much bigger goal of a political solution to the civil war.

Friday 13th: the ‘most feared’ date in history

13. 09. 2013
Friday 13th: the ‘most feared’ date in history
Friday 13th is widely considered an ‘unlucky day’. According to the Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, California, an estimated 17 to 21 million people in the United States are actively affected by a fear of Friday 13th, making it the most feared day in history.

EuroBasket: Slovenia beat Italy

13. 09. 2013
EuroBasket: Slovenia beat Italy
Slovenia beat the previously undefeated Italy 84:77 in their first game of the second round of EuroBasket in front of a packed Stožice Arena on Thursday to take an important step towards the quarter-finals of the tournament

Slovenia to Open EuroBasket Second Round Against Italy

12. 09. 2013
Slovenia to Open EuroBasket Second Round Against Italy
The Slovenian national basketball team will play its first second round match at Eurobasket on Thursday evening by taking on an Italian team that went undefeated in the preliminary round.

Syria crisis: Russia's Putin issues plea to US over Syria

12. 09. 2013
Syria crisis: Russia's Putin issues plea to US over Syria
Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a direct personal appeal to the American people over the Syrian crisis.

Slovenian, Kosovo President Want Better Economic Cooperation

11. 09. 2013
Slovenian, Kosovo President Want Better Economic Cooperation
President Borut Pahor and his Kosovo counterpart Atifete Jahjaga shared the view on Tuesday that cooperation between the two countries was very good, however there was still much room for improvement, especially in trade. Pahor also praised the negotiation efforts of Kosovo and Serbia.

Norway’s Conservatives win elections but need to form coalition

10. 09. 2013
Norway’s Conservatives win elections but need to form coalition
Jens Stoltenberg has announced his resignation as Norway’s prime minister and conceded defeat in the country’s general election.

PM Downplays Reports about Tensions in Coalition

10. 09. 2013
PM Downplays Reports about Tensions in Coalition
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek downplayed reports suggesting building up of tensions in the coalition over austerity budget for 2014 on Monday.

DISCOVER THE 2013 OFFICIAL PRE-SELECTION

09. 09. 2013
GRAND PRIX D’HORLOGERIE DE GENÈVE
The Foundation of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) invites you to view the list of 70 watches pre-selected by the 2013 jury presented on its official website www.gphg.org. These timepieces will be continuing the competition to win the prestigious “Aiguille d’Or” or another of the 15 other prizes that will reward the finest creations of the year and the most remarkable actors on the watchmaking stage. When consulting this list on the Internet or on the GPHG mobile app, watch enthusiasts are invited to vote for their favourite watch. They thereby help choose the winner of the Public Prize and automatically take part in the prize draw offering a chance to win a watch.

Housing Prices Up in Q2

09. 09. 2013
Housing Prices Up in Q2
Housing prices in Slovenia increased 0.8% in the second quarter of the year, the Statistics Office announced on Thursday. New flats and existing houses were dearer, while the prices of new houses and existing flats fell compared to the first quarter.

EuroBasket: Slovenia Beat Reigning Champions Spain

06. 09. 2013
EuroBasket: Slovenia Beat Reigning Champions Spain
Slovenia, the host nation of EuroBasket 2013, beat the reigning European champions Spain in Celje on Thursday 78:69 (9:14, 25:33, 52:51), in a match of two group C favourites of the preliminary round.

G20 'divided' on Syria as Power criticises Russia

06. 09. 2013
G20 'divided' on Syria as Power criticises Russia
G20 leaders remain divided over the Syrian conflict as they enter the final day of their Russian summit.

Slovenia Again Dropped on World Competitiveness Rankings

05. 09. 2013
Slovenia Again Dropped on World Competitiveness Rankings
Slovenia slipped six places on the Global Competitiveness Index compiled by the World Economic Forum and is now 62nd among 148 countries, with a score of 4.2 on a 1-7 scale.

Syria rifts loom large as G20 gather in St Petersburg

05. 09. 2013
Syria rifts loom large as G20 gather in St Petersburg
World leaders from the G20 group of nations are set to meet in Russia amid sharp differences over military action against Syria's government.

EuroBasket 2013 Opened

04. 09. 2013
EuroBasket 2013 Opened
The opening ceremony for EuroBasket 2013 was held in Ljubljana's Congress Square on Tuesday evening, on the eve of the first day of the biggest sporting event in independent Slovenia. The ceremony was addressed by Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek, who praised Slovenian athletes and welcomed basketball fans to Slovenia.

Syria: US Senate committee leaders agree a draft resolution supporting military action against Syria

04. 09. 2013
Syria: US Senate committee leaders agree a draft resolution supporting military action against Syria
Leaders of the US Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee have agreed on a draft resolution for the use of military force in Syria, setting a 60-day limit on the intervention.

NLB Grants EUR 680M Loans in First Six Months

02. 09. 2013
NLB Grants EUR 680M Loans in First Six Months
Slovenia's biggest bank, NLB, issued about EUR 680m in loans in the first half of 2013, a quarter of which were new loans. Costs were down 13% year-on-year, the bank said after Friday's meeting of the supervisors. The supervisory board reaffirmed its confidence in the management's efforts to restructure the bank.

Vodafone says its Verizon sale talks are advanced

02. 09. 2013
Vodafone says its Verizon sale talks are advanced
Vodafone has said talks regarding the sale of its 45% stake in Verizon Wireless in the US are "advanced" and it has put a value on the stake.

New Central Bank Governor Wants Efficient Banking System, Warns Against Overregulation

29. 08. 2013
New Central Bank Governor Wants Efficient Banking System, Warns Against Overregulation
Efforts to restructure Slovenia's ailing banks must be aimed at achieving an efficient and stable sector, Banka Slovenije Governor Boštjan Jazbec has told the STA. Suggesting this could require consolidation, he warned against excessive supervision by the central bank as a response to past mistakes.

News Obama blames Syrian government for chemical attack but says he has not “made a decision” on action

29. 08. 2013
News Obama blames Syrian government for chemical attack but says he has not “made a decision” on action
U.S. president, Barrack Obama has said that his administration has concluded that the Syrian government carried out a chemical attack on its people in Damascus last week.

Management Fiasco in Port of Koper

28. 08. 2013
Management Fiasco in Port of Koper
Gašpar Gašpar Mišič, a member of the senior coalition party Positive Slovenia (PS), was appointed chairman of the state-owned port operator Luka Koper in a narrow vote on the supervisory board on Monday that has already invited a widespread condemnation.

What drives a young man to violent crime?

28. 08. 2013
What drives a young man to violent crime?
Everybody wants to know what causes people to turn to violent crime. But what can you tell from the family history of a robber?

Boris Pahor Conferred Title of Honorary Citizen of Trieste

27. 08. 2013
Boris Pahor Conferred Title of Honorary Citizen of Trieste
Acclaimed author Boris Pahor, a member of the Slovenian minority in Italy, became on Friday the first Slovenian to be declared an honorary citizen of Trieste, media report.

Greece 'may renegotiate rescue loans'

27. 08. 2013
Greece may seek to ease its debt burden by renegotiating its bailout terms, the Greek finance minister said on Monday.

Gaming Chain Eyeing New Investment

23. 08. 2013
Gaming Chain Eyeing New Investment
Slovenia's biggest gaming chain is mulling opening a new gaming centre on the border with Italy. The idea was discussed at a meeting of the supervisory board of HIT on Monday, which also examined financial restructuring plans.

European forests near carbon saturation point

23. 08. 2013
European forests near carbon saturation point
A new study has warned that Europe’s forests are showing signs of reaching saturation point in their ability to absorb carbon dioxide.

Slovenia Hopes EuroBasket Will Bring also Business

22. 08. 2013
Slovenia Hopes EuroBasket Will Bring also Business
Slovenia has big hopes for the upcoming European Basketball Championships both on and off the court. While the tournament is set to be the biggest sporting event in the country's history, it is also expected to provide a much needed boost to business.

Bo Xilai denies bribery at China trial

22. 08. 2013
Bo Xilai denies bribery at China trial
Disgraced Chinese politician Bo Xilai has denied one of the bribery allegations against him, as he went on trial in Jinan.

Poetry & Wine Festival Starts in Ptuj

21. 08. 2013
Poetry & Wine Festival Starts in Ptuj
Slovenia's pre-eminent poetry festival, the Days of Poetry and Wine, will be held in Ptuj in eastern Slovenia between 21 and 24 August featuring over 20 poets and a series of events designed to bring the medieval city's streets to life.

Mark Zuckerberg's big idea: The 'next 5 billion' people

21. 08. 2013
Mark Zuckerberg's big idea: The 'next 5 billion' people
Most of us take the Internet for granted. But think about what Internet access would mean to 5 billion people who don't currently have it.

WWI Grenade Safely Removed from River Soča

20. 08. 2013
WWI Grenade Safely Removed from River Soča
A 350-kilogramme cannon grenade from the First World War was safely removed from the river Soča on Friday after some 35 locals were evacuated as a precaution.

Eurozone's new challenge: Confidence

20. 08. 2013
Eurozone's new challenge: Confidence
London (CNN) -- Summer may be drawing to a close but for the eurozone's economy, spring has only just begun.

All Flights from Slovenia to Egypt Cancelled

19. 08. 2013
All Flights from Slovenia to Egypt Cancelled
Some 180 Slovenian tourists scheduled to fly to Egypt for holidays today, have decided not to go to this Arab country after violence there has been escalating over the past few days.

North Korea agrees to family reunions with the South

19. 08. 2013
North Korea agrees to family reunions with the South
In another clear sign that the severely strained relations between the two sides is slowly improving, North Korea has agreed to a proposal from the South that they resume the reunion of families separated in the 1950-53 Korean War.

Business Wishlist: Lower Taxes, Development Boost

16. 08. 2013
Business Wishlist: Lower Taxes, Development Boost
Slovenian business organisations have issued a wishlist to the government in which they ask for more "breathing room" through the lowering of taxes and measures to boost development and competitiveness.

Edward Snowden documents show NSA broke privacy rules

16. 08. 2013
Edward Snowden documents show NSA broke privacy rules
The US National Security Agency (NSA) broke privacy rules and overstepped its legal authority thousands of times in the past two years, according to documents leaked by Edward Snowden.

Gorenje Gearing up for Warsaw Listing

14. 08. 2013
Gorenje Gearing up for Warsaw Listing
Home appliances maker Gorenje is carrying out preparations for a dual listing on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. A formal proposal will be put to the company's shareholders at the 23 August annual general meeting, the company confirmed Tuesday.

Bloodshed as Cairo camps cleared

14. 08. 2013
Bloodshed as Cairo camps cleared
Egyptian security forces have moved in to clear two protest camps occupied by supporters of deposed president Mohammed Morsi in Cairo, with reports of many killed.

Business Bundesbank: Greece will need extra aid by early 2014

13. 08. 2013
Business Bundesbank: Greece will need extra aid by early 2014
Germany’s central bank expects that Greece will need additional rescue loans from its European partners by the start of 2014 at the very latest, weekly magazine Der Spiegel reported on Sunday, citing a document from the Bundesbank.

Ministry Upbeat Despite July Growth in Unemployment

13. 08. 2013
Ministry Upbeat Despite July Growth in Unemployment
Despite the increase in the number of people registered as unemployed in July, the Slovenian Labour Ministry is satisfied with this year's trends in the field and points to effects of active employment policy.

Hot Weather Boosts Turnout in Alpine Resorts

12. 08. 2013
Hot Weather Boosts Turnout in Alpine Resorts
Slovenian alpine resorts are reporting a rise in visitor numbers this summer season as many seek relief from oppressing heat in the cool of the lush valleys at the foot of the Alps.

The simple pleasures of Eid: Family, flowers and piles of sweets

12. 08. 2013
The simple pleasures of Eid: Family, flowers and piles of sweets
For the world's Muslims, the festival of Eid al-Fitr is a perfect conclusion to Ramadan -- the month-long period of fasting and contemplation practiced by observers of Islam around the globe. One of the most festive periods in the religion's calendar, Eid is often commemorated with large feasts, family-time, and through charitable acts and donations.

Germany: Merkel challenger Steinbrueck accuses Chancellor of ‘lulling country to sleep’

09. 08. 2013
Germany: Merkel challenger Steinbrueck accuses Chancellor of ‘lulling country to sleep’
Opponents of Chancellor Angela Merkel have stepped up their election campaign while the German leader is away on holiday.

Probanka Gets Extension of Recapitalisation Deadline

09. 08. 2013
Probanka Gets Extension of Recapitalisation Deadline
The central bank has granted the request of the Maribor-based bank Probanka for an extension of a deadline for recapitalisation, giving it until the end of September to secure fresh capital, the bank said Tuesday.

Part of Blocked EU Funding Released

08. 08. 2013
Part of Blocked EU Funding Released
The European Commission has released a part of the funding for Slovenia that it suspended in May over fraud in EU-funded projects, the public broadcaster RTV Slovenija reported on Tuesday.

Why is cycling so popular in the Netherlands?

08. 08. 2013
Why is cycling so popular in the Netherlands?
There are more bicycles than residents in The Netherlands and in cities like Amsterdam and The Hague up to 70% of all journeys are made by bike. The BBC's Hague correspondent, Anna Holligan, who rides an omafiets - or "granny style" - bike complete with wicker basket and pedal-back brakes, examines what made everyone get back in the saddle.

Honey from Kras Area Gets Protected Designation of Origin

07. 08. 2013
Honey from Kras Area Gets Protected Designation of Origin
Honey produced in Slovenia's western region of Kras can now be labelled with the protected designation of origin "Kraški med", the European Commission said Tuesday. The label may be used for eight types of honey produced from nectar collected by bees from vegetation in Kras.

Rural France: A tale of two villages

07. 08. 2013
Rural France: A tale of two villages
The notion of cosy, colourful village life has long drawn visitors to France but the reality can be very different.

Russian economic growth “worrisome”

06. 08. 2013
Russian economic growth “worrisome”
More indications that Russia’s economy has stalled have come from the latest business surveys there.

Drought Reaches Level of Natural Disaster

06. 08. 2013
Drought Reaches Level of Natural Disaster
The ongoing drought has already caused so much damage that it will be labelled natural disaster, Agriculture Minister Dejan Židan said on Monday as he visited the north-eastern region of Pomurje. There is no doubt disaster will be proclaimed, as damage has already exceeded 0.3% of budget revenue.

Greece’s economic reforms – are they enough?

05. 08. 2013
Greece’s economic reforms – are they enough?
Are the Greek reforms working? Can they lift the country out of its sixth year of recession? Will anyone invest in a country still in crisis?

Tax Evaders to Pay 70% Tax on Unreported Assets

05. 08. 2013
Tax Evaders to Pay 70% Tax on Unreported Assets
Those trying to avoid taxes in Slovenia might soon be facing a 70% tax on the assets they failed to report to the Tax Administration (DURS) if the National Assembly passes the changes to the tax procedure act, which are in mandatory public debate until Friday.

ECB says interest rates to stay low for ‘extended period’

02. 08. 2013
ECB says interest rates to stay low for ‘extended period’
There was no interest rate change from the European Central Bank at the policymakers’ July meeting. It stayed at a record low 0.5 percent.

New Ambassador to US Taking Over

02. 08. 2013
New Ambassador to US Taking Over
Roman Kirn, Slovenia's Ambassador to the USA, has left Washington, DC, to take over as ambassador in The Hague. The new Ambassador to the US Božo Cerar is expected to move to Washington shortly.

Day of truth for Spain’s Prime Minister Rajoy

01. 08. 2013
Day of truth for Spain’s Prime Minister Rajoy
Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is due to speak in parliament on Thursday about allegations of illegal payments.

Ex PM's Pahor and Kosor Commemorate Border Breakthrough

01. 08. 2013
Ex PM´s Pahor and Kosor Commemorate Border Breakthrough
President Borut Pahor met former Croatian Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor in Trakošćan, Croatia, on Wednesday to commemorate the meeting in 2009 at which they reached a key breakthrough on the long-running border dispute between Slovenia and Croatia.

Record Number of Slovenians Left the Country in 2012

31. 07. 2013
Record Number of Slovenians Left the Country in 2012
Slovenia saw a record number of its citizens moving from the country in 2012, according to data released by the Statistics Office on Tuesday. As many as 8,191 Slovenians left the country for a job or education abroad. 25% of them moved to Germany and about 14% went to Austria.

Pace of modern life: UK v Denmark

31. 07. 2013
Pace of modern life: UK v Denmark
The UK has a reputation for poor work-life balance and days full of hurry and worry. Is Denmark an example to follow? For The Editors, a programme which sets out to ask challenging questions, I decided to find out.

Swiss rail collision leaves one dead and dozens injured

30. 07. 2013
Swiss rail collision leaves one dead and dozens injured
Two trains collided head-on in western Switzerland on Monday evening, killing the driver of one and injuring at least 35 passengers.

Russian Investors Eyeing Privatisation in Slovenia

30. 07. 2013
Russian Investors Eyeing Privatisation in Slovenia
Russian Minister of Communications and Mass Media Nikolay Anatolyevich Nikiforov expressed Russian companies' interest in the planned privatisation in Slovenia as he met Foreign Minister Karl Erjavec on Monday to review and extend a programme of joint projects.

EIB to Help Slovenia Improve Use of Bank Mechanisms

29. 07. 2013
EIB to Help Slovenia Improve Use of Bank Mechanisms
European Investment Bank (EIB) is ready to help Slovenia boost the use of mechanisms operated by the EU bank, Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek said after meeting EIB President Werner Hoyer in Ljubljana on Friday.

US and French ad agencies merge to form world’s largest agency

29. 07. 2013
US and French ad agencies merge to form world’s largest agency
Two of the world’s largest advertising agencies, France-based Publicis Group and New York-based Omnicom, have announced a merger.

Investors hit ‘Like’ for Facebook’s results

26. 07. 2013
Investors hit ‘Like’ for Facebook’s results
Facebook’s shares shot up on Thursday after it unveiled stellar results.

French President Paying Official Visit to Slovenia

26. 07. 2013
French President Paying Official Visit to Slovenia
French President Francois Hollande will pay an official visit to Slovenia on Thursday in what is the first official visit by a French president. He will hold talks with President Pahor, PM Alenka Bratušek and Speaker Janko Veber after attending a Brdo Process conference.

Dozens die in one of Spain’s worst rail disasters

25. 07. 2013
Dozens die in one of Spain's worst rail disasters
A high-speed train travelling from Madrid to the Galicia region of northwest Spain derailed late Wednesday night killing at least 77 people and injuring around 120 more.

Croatia Could Join Schengen Zone in Three Years

25. 07. 2013
Croatia Could Join Schengen Zone in Three Years
Interior Minister Gregor Virant met his Croatian counterpart Ranko Ostojić at the Dragonja border crossing on Wednesday to take another look at the recently introduced joint police checks on the Slovenian-Croatian border. He said the next step for Croatia was entering the Schengen Area, which could happen in three years.

Ljubljana Summer School Joining the Best from the East and the West

24. 07. 2013
Ljubljana Summer School Joining the Best from the East and the West
The University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Economics warmly welcomed the 14th Generation of Ljubljana Summer School Take the Best from East and West. Bachelor, Master and PhD students attended courses, visited companies, discovered natural beauties of Slovenia, got familiarised with local culture and socialise with students and professors from around the world. Participants claim that the Ljubljana Summer School is an ideal combination of learning, travelling and meeting new friends.

Bulgarian parliament is blocked as anti- government protesters change tactics

24. 07. 2013
Bulgarian parliament is blocked as anti- government protesters change tactics
Anti-government protesters in Bulgaria who have been holding rallies for weeks, blocked the country’s parliament on Tuesday trapping MPs inside.

Slovenia to Vote Against List of EU Priority Projects

23. 07. 2013
Slovenia to Vote Against List of EU Priority Projects
Slovenia will vote against a list of priority EU projects of common interest because of the inclusion of a disputed Italian gas terminal near the border with Slovenia, Infrastructure Minister Samo Omerzel announced on Monday. Later in the day, Foreign Minister Karl Erjavec said that the gas terminal will not be on the list.

Royal baby: Messages of congratulations flood in after birth

23. 07. 2013
Royal baby: Messages of congratulations flood in after birth
Congratulatory messages are flooding in from around the world to mark the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's son, the third in line to the throne.

Slovenia Starts Training Camp for EuroBasket

22. 07. 2013
Slovenia Starts Training Camp for EuroBasket
The Slovenian national basketball team started on Saturday their training camp for the EuroBasket, to be played in Slovenia between 4 and 22 September. A total of 13 players are currently at the camp in Rogaška Slatina, and three more are expected to join the team next week.

Germany accused of playing the ‘spying game’

22. 07. 2013
Germany accused of playing the ‘spying game’
Germany has become the latest nation to become embroiled in a espionage scandal according to the magazine Der Spiegel.

Govt Working on 2014 Supplementary Budget, 2015 Budget

19. 07. 2013
Govt Working on 2014 Supplementary Budget, 2015 Budget
The government met on Thursday afternoon to discuss the 2014 supplementary budget and 2015 budget. The meeting is still ongoing but no concrete solutions are expected for today. The 2014 supplementary budget is needed because the original document was drafted in 2012 in a package with this year's budget, which was overhauled only last week.

Cuban Missile Crisis II? Not exactly, say weapons experts

19. 07. 2013
Cuban Missile Crisis II? Not exactly, say weapons experts
The bizarre case of a North Korea-bound ship being seized and searched following a violent struggle on the Panama Canal sounds like a deleted scene from the Cold War.

President Pahor Calls for Boosting Ties with Macedonia

17. 07. 2013
President Pahor Calls for Boosting Ties with Macedonia
President Borut Pahor started a two-day official trip to Macedonia by meeting his counterpart Gjorgje Ivanov for talks that focused on ways to boost ties between the countries, especially in trade, investment and potential forays into third markets.

OECD jobless rates forecast to remain stubbornly high

17. 07. 2013
OECD jobless rates forecast to remain stubbornly high
Unemployment will remain high in developed countries next year, with young people and the low-skilled hit hardest, according to the OECD, a club of mostly rich nations.

New Road Transport Rules to Boost Safety

16. 07. 2013
New Road Transport Rules to Boost Safety
The National Assembly passed on Monday changes to the road transport rules act introducing stricter punishments for repeat offenders behind the wheel and reintroducing the possibility for police to impound vehicles. Police custody for drivers will be introduced and the powers of toll supervisors expanded.

'Brexit': IEA offers prize for UK exit plan from EU

16. 07. 2013
'Brexit': IEA offers prize for UK exit plan from EU
The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has announced that it is holding a competition to find the best plan for a UK exit from the European Union.

Climate Change Experts Meeting in Bled

15. 07. 2013
Climate Change Experts Meeting in Bled
Around 350 scientists from around the world are expected in the lakeside town of Bled for the 4th session of lead authors of the second working group of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

China's economic growth at 7.5% in April to June period

15. 07. 2013
China's economic growth at 7.5% in April to June period
China's economic growth slowed in the April to June period, the second straight quarter of weaker expansion.

Govt Raises Road Tax

12. 07. 2013
Govt Raises Road Tax
The government decided on Thursday to increase the road tax that vehicle owners pay every year when renewing registration. Car owners will pay around 13% more as of 15 July, while motorcycle owners will pay 10% more.

Is Snowden worth the risk? Latin America weighs pros and cons

12. 07. 2013
Is Snowden worth the risk? Latin America weighs pros and cons
(CNN) -- It's been days since three Latin American presidents offered to give Edward Snowden a safe place to hide out from U.S. authorities.

Luxembourg PM Juncker to resign over spy scandal

11. 07. 2013
Luxembourg PM Juncker to resign over spy scandal
Luxembourg will hold new elections after Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker announced he would resign following a secret service scandal.

Traditional Beer Festival Beginning Today in Laško

11. 07. 2013
Traditional Beer Festival Beginning Today in Laško
The 50th Festival of Beer and Flowers will kick off in the town of Laško (N) on Thursday. The festival will culminate on Sunday with a traditional rustic wedding and a Beer and Flowers Parade, featuring four brass bands from Slovenia and abroad, beverage maker Pivovarna Laško has told the press ahead of the festival.

Latin American friends of Snowden lash out at US, EU

10. 07. 2013
Latin American friends of Snowden lash out at US, EU
Latin American anger continues to fester over the Snowden affair. The heads of state of Ecuador, Venezuela, Argentina, Uruguay and Suriname closed ranks with Bolivia's Evo Morales last week. It was a gesture of defiance aimed at Washington, and of disgust with European countries. According to La Paz, they wouldn't let Morales fly over them because someone suspected the US whistleblower was on board his plane returning from Moscow.

President Pahor in Dubrovnik Promoting Brdo Process Summit

10. 07. 2013
President Pahor in Dubrovnik Promoting Brdo Process Summit
Slovenian President Borut Pahor will meet his Croatian counterpart Ivo Josipović on Wednesday on the sidelines of the opening of the 64th Dubrovnik Games in Croatia ahead of the Brdo Process Summit, scheduled for 25 July, in Slovenia.

Egypt’s interim president sets timetable for elections and calls for calm

09. 07. 2013
Egypt’s interim president sets timetable for elections and calls for calm
After Monday's bloody clashes in which at least 51 people died, Egypt's interim president has set a timetable for elections and called for calm.

FM Says Slovenia Would Not Close Airspace to Snowden

09. 07. 2013
FM Says Slovenia Would Not Close Airspace to Snowden
Slovenia would certainly not close its airspace if ex-CIA analyst Edward Snowden were in a plane flying over its territory, Foreign Minister Karl Erjavec told press. He added that Slovenia had not yet received confirmation from the US that it was not a target of an alleged American spying operation.

Wimbledon 2013: Andy Murray makes history

08. 07. 2013
Wimbledon 2013: Andy Murray makes history
Britain’s Andy Murray outclassed world number one Novak Djokovic in straight sets in the Wimbledon final at the All England Club on Sunday.

Finance Minister Čufer in Brussels for Finance Ministerials

08. 07. 2013
Finance Minister Čufer in Brussels for Finance Ministerials
Finance Minister Uroš Čufer will attend a meeting of eurozone finance ministers in Brussels on Monday, followed by a meeting of EU finance ministers on Tuesday. The main item on the agenda of eurozone ministers will be the next EUR 8.1bn tranche of aid to Greece.

Merkur Looking for Strategic Partner

05. 07. 2013
Merkur Looking for Strategic Partner
Hardware and home equipment retailer Merkur has managed to strike a liquidity deal with creditor banks under which the struggling company will be exempt from paying its financial obligations to banks until the end of the year. The company is also looking for strategic partner.

25 of mankind's greatest engineering achievements

05. 07. 2013
25 of mankind's greatest engineering achievements
(CNN) -- The last few months have seen a fair number of impressive construction plans announced, from Norway's intention to create the world's first shipping tunnel, to Maldives' plans for a space-age underwater hotel, to Dubai's plans for the world's biggest shopping mall.

Police Praised for Slovenia's Place among Safest Countries

04. 07. 2013
Police Praised for Slovenia's Place among Safest Countries
Slovenia is among the safest countries in the world also because of the dedicated work of the police, President Borut Pahor stressed at Thursday's ceremony marking the Day of Slovenian Police. The speakers also underlined the role of the Slovenian police in the country's 1991 independence war.

A day after coup, Egyptians awake to uncertainty

04. 07. 2013
A day after coup, Egyptians awake to uncertainty
Cairo (CNN) -- Egyptians awoke to an uncertain new political order on Thursday, a day after the military deposed and reportedly detained the country's first democratically elected president, put a top judge in his place and suspended the constitution.

Violence follows presidential address as opponents dismiss Mursi’s “ legitimacy”

03. 07. 2013
Violence follows presidential address as opponents dismiss Mursi’s “ legitimacy”
Violent clashes between Islamists and security forces broke out in front of Cairo University following a televised address by Egypt's president.

Tickets for Slovenia's Matches at EuroBasket Sold Out

03. 07. 2013
Tickets for Slovenia's Matches at EuroBasket Sold Out
The tickets for Slovenia's first round matches at the EuroBasket in Celje, which went on sale on Monday, are virtually sold out, as only a few tickets for the Slovenia-Georgia game are still available, the organisers said.

Snowden has applied for political asylum in Norway

02. 07. 2013
Snowden has applied for political asylum in Norway
Former U.S. spy agency contractor Edward Snowden has applied for political asylum in Norway, the Norwegian foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

Slovenia Supports Montenegro to Join NATO

02. 07. 2013
Slovenia Supports Montenegro to Join NATO
Defence Minister Roman Jakič discussed cooperation with his Montenegrin counterpart Milica Pejanović Đurišić as he began an official visit to Montenegro on Monday. The country's efforts for EU and NATO membership were broached as well, with Slovenia declaring readiness to help also in the future.

EU Enlargement Facilitates Travel to Croatia

01. 07. 2013
EU Enlargement Facilitates Travel to Croatia
The EU enlargement to Croatia on Monday brings certain changes for Slovenians, for whom Croatia is a leading holiday destination and an important trading partner. While border checks remain in place, most customs limitations have been waived.

Snowden leaks: Fresh US bugging claims as EU seeks answers

01. 07. 2013
Snowden leaks: Fresh US bugging claims as EU seeks answers
France, Greece and Italy have been the "targets" of US spying operations, according to the latest files leaked to Britain's Guardian newspaper.

Positive Trend in Slovenia's External Balance Continues

28. 06. 2013
Positive Trend in Slovenia's External Balance Continues
Slovenia's surplus in transactions with the rest of the world stood at EUR 280.3m or 3.4% of GDP in the first quarter of this year, on the back of strong exports and weakening imports, the Statistics Office said

US Senate passes far-reaching immigration reform bill

28. 06. 2013
US Senate passes far-reaching immigration reform bill
The US Senate has passed a broad immigration reform bill that includes a path to citizenship for an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants.

EU says Britain must explain surveillance programme

27. 06. 2013
Britain surveillance programme
The European Union Commission has written to Britain’s Foreign Secretary William Hague demanding answers about its surveillance programme Tempora.

Slovenia Withdrawing Its FDI, UN Report Says

27. 06. 2013
Slovenia Withdrawing Its FDI, UN Report Says
The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) presented on Wednesday the 2013 World Investment Report, which sees developing countries taking over the dominating position in foreign direct investments (FDI). Slovenia last year withdrew almost US$100m of its FDI, according to the report.

Anger as the eurozone tries to stand firm

26. 06. 2013
Anger as the eurozone tries to stand firm
“No one will be sheltered from austerity” – that was the message from Ireland’s prime minister as he unveiled a four-year financial plan of cuts in return for an 85 billion euro bailout.

Slovenia Celebrating 22 Years of Independence

26. 06. 2013
slo2
It is 22 years to the day on Tuesday since Slovenia declared independence from Yugoslavia, which is celebrated every 25 June as National Day, a work-free day. The holiday marks 25 June 1991, when the Slovenian Assembly passed the Basic Constitutional Charter and the Declaration of Independence.

BIS: Central banks must end 'whatever it takes' policy

24. 06. 2013
BIS: Central banks must end
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) says banks have done their bit to help economic recovery and now governments must do more.

Lenarčič Declared World's Top Pilot of the Year

24. 06. 2013
Lenarčič Declared World's Top Pilot of the Year
Pilot and photographer Matevž Lenarčič, who recently completed a flight over the North Pole in an ultralight aircraft, has been declared the world's top pilot of the year. Lenarčič has won the Flightglobal Achievement Award despite strong competition, which included Austrian skydiver Felix Baumgartner.

The leaders of Greece’s three main parties meeting for late night talks

21. 06. 2013
The leaders of Greece’s three main parties meeting for late night talks
The leaders of Greece’s three main parties meeting for late night talks.

Customs Presents Changes Brought by Croatia's EU Accession

21. 06. 2013
Customs Presents Changes Brought by Croatia's EU Accession
The Customs Administration (CURS) presented the changes resulting from Croatia's accession to the EU on 1 July, explaining that this will affect Slovenian customs officers as customs control on the Slovenian-Croatian border will be abolished.

Official: US, Afghan Taliban talks to be held 'in next few days'

20. 06. 2013
Official: US, Afghan Taliban talks to be held
Kabul, Afghanistan (CNN) -- Peace talks between the U.S. and the Taliban over the war in Afghanistan will likely be held "in the next few days," a senior U.S. administration official told CNN on Wednesday.

BSH Nazarje Europe's Biggest Small Home Appliance Plan

20. 06. 2013
The Nazarje plant puts out seven million various appliances a year, BSH Slovenija boss Boštjan Gorjup said upon the 20th anniversary of BSH's presence in Slovenia.

Thousands are evacuated as exploding shells rock a Russian munitions depot

19. 06. 2013
russianexplosion
Amateur video from mobile phones recorded numerous blasts at a military depot in southern Russia where up to 13 million shells were said to have been stored.

Slovenia Top in Freedom and Democracy

19. 06. 2013
Slovenia Top in Freedom and Democracy
The New York-based NGO dedicated to the expansion of democracy, Freedom House, has ranked Slovenia the best in democracy and freedom among 29 countries in transition from Central Europe to Eurasia. The report gave Slovenia an overall score of 1.89 on a scale from one to seven, with one being the best.

Greece court orders state broadcaster ERT back on air

18. 06. 2013
Greece court orders state broadcaster ERT back on air
A Greek court has ordered that state broadcaster ERT, which was shut down by the government last week, can resume transmissions.

Mercator to Protect Interests in Agreement with Agrokor

18. 06. 2013
Mercator to Protect Interests in Agreement with Agrokor
The managements of retailer Mercator and its Croatian buyer Agrokor will sign a cooperation agreement expectedly on Tuesday that will make part of the contract on the sale of a 53% stake in the Slovenian retailer and that would ensure Mercator's headquarters and key functions to stay in Slovenia.

Putin and Cameron hold talks ahead of G8 summit

17. 06. 2013
Putin and Cameron hold talks ahead of G8 summit
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with British Prime Minister David Cameron in Downing Street ahead of today's G8 summit. Before leaving London the two leaders discussed Syria - a subject set to dominate the international get-together in Belfast.

SIJ Group Affected by Crisis on European Markets

17. 06. 2013
SIJ Group Affected by Crisis on European Markets
Revenues of the Russian-owned steel industry group SIJ shrank 13% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2013 due to a bad situation on the European markets. Employing just over 3,000 workers, the group generated revenues of EUR 179m and a profit of EUR 1.38m.

General strike in Greece over TV shutdown

13. 06. 2013
General strike in Greece over TV shutdown
The Greek prime minister’s decision to shut down the public television station ERT has led to a one day general strike in the country. Journalists across all media have called an indefinite strike.The prime minister’s move has also stoked anger within the coalition government.

Sales of Diners Club Slovenija Entering Final Phase

13. 06. 2013
Sales of Diners Club Slovenija Entering Final Phase
Payment card issuer Diners Club Slovenije, whose payment transactions licence was revoked by the central bank in mid-May due to mounting debt to merchants, said on Wednesday that the talks on the sales of the company were in the final phase. The deadline by which owner Tomaž Lovše was to repay creditors also expired today.

EU seeks reassurances from US over spying scandal

12. 06. 2013
EU seeks reassurances from US over spying scandal
EU officials will quiz their American counterparts over a surveillance and spying scandal later this week.

PM Bratušek in Italy and Vatican

12. 06. 2013
PM Bratušek in Italy and Vatican
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek will start a two-day working visit to Rome on Wednesday for talks with senior Italian officials. She will also be received in the Vatican by Pope Francis on Thursday.

Turkey protests: Riot police storm Taksim Square

11. 06. 2013
Turkey protests: Riot police storm Taksim Square
Turkish riot police have moved into Istanbul's Taksim Square, which has been occupied by anti-government protesters for close to two weeks.

Adria Airways Cancels Flight ahead of French Air Control Strike

11. 06. 2013
Adria Airways Cancels Flight ahead of French Air Control Strike
Slovenian flag carrier Adria Airways has cancelled one flight as French air traffic controllers will go on a three-day strike on Tuesday in protest against the European Commission's plans to speed up the introduction of an EU-wide air traffic control system.

Swedish Royal marries British born man

10. 06. 2013
Swedish Royal marries British born man
Princess Madeleine of Sweden has got married at the Royal Chapel in the capital Stockholm.

Trieste-Based Slovenian Author Boris Pahor Honoured by EU

10. 06. 2013
Trieste-Based Slovenian Author Boris Pahor Honoured by EU
Acclaimed Slovenian author Boris Pahor, based in Italy's Trieste, has won this year's European Citizens' Prize, conferred on individuals or groups who have made a significant contribution to mutual understanding and fostering of ties among EU nations. Pahor will receive the prize in Slovenia at the end of August, when he turns 100.

Biggest Monthly Fall in Jobless Total This Year

07. 06. 2013
Biggest Monthly Fall in Jobless Total This Year
Slovenia's registered jobless total fell by 2.3% in May to 118,576 in the most substantial monthly decrease this year. The figure is still 11% above the one registered by the Employment Service in May 2012.

Hungary strengthens its flood defences

07. 06. 2013
Hungary strengthens its flood defences
Soldiers in Hungary are preparing their defences. The Danube has crossed the country’s borders threatening its worst floods. The waters are expected to reach an all time high in the border area on Saturday while it will peak in Budapest the capital at the start of next week.

Slovenia to Further Cut Defence Budget Despite NATO Goals

06. 06. 2013
Slovenia to Further Cut Defence Budget Despite NATO Goals
Slovenia will continue decreasing its defence budget despite the calls from NATO to at least keep defence spending level, Defence Minister Roman Jakič said at the NATO ministerial in Brussels on Wednesday. He announced a EUR 20m cut to 1.11% of GDP in the upcoming supplementary budget.

Record floods continue in North and Central Europe

06. 06. 2013
Record floods continue in North and Central Europe
Floods continue to wreak havoc across northern and central Europe.

A fifth night of unrest in Turkey

05. 06. 2013
A fifth night of unrest in Turkey
There has been a fifth night of unrest in Turkey.

Parliament to Hold Emergency Session on Judiciary

05. 06. 2013
Parliament to Hold Emergency Session on Judiciary
The National Assembly will convene Wednesday an emergency session on the state of the judiciary in the wake of the fiasco surrounding the recent disappearance of the former boss of builder Vegrad Hilda Tovšak.

Tragicomedy With Thermo Plant TEŠ 6 Investment Goes On

04. 06. 2013
Tragicomedy With Thermo Plant TEŠ 6 Investment Goes On
The boss of power utility HSE Blaž Košorok and Peter Dermol of the TEŠ coal-fired power plant told the press on Monday that they were looking for ways to secure the extra EUR 140m needed to finish the new generator at TEŠ, whose costs have now ballooned to EUR 1.44bn. Talks with the main supplier, Alstom, will start soon.

Flooding wreaks havoc across central Europe

04. 06. 2013
Flooding wreaks havoc across central Europe
Flooding caused by heavy rain continues to cause problems in central Europe.

Westerners ‘killed in government ambush’ in Syria

31. 05. 2013
Westerners ‘killed in government ambush’ in Syria
Three westerners including an American and a Briton are reported killed in a government ambush in the Syrian town of Idlib, according to a foreign-based human rights group.

Slovenia Supporting Chinese Solar Industry?

31. 05. 2013
Slovenia Supporting Chinese Solar Industry?
Slovenian solar panel maker Bisol is indignant after Slovenia said earlier this week it was against anti-dumping duties for solar panels from China. Slovenia voted against the proposal in a survey of member states on Monday, a move labelled by Bisol as "high treason".

Govt to Define Transitional Period for Croatian Workers

30. 05. 2013
Govt to Define Transitional Period for Croatian Workers
The government is expected to adopt today a bill enforcing a transitional period for Croatian workers after Croatia joins the EU on 1 July. The bill envisages a two-year period during which Croatian citizens would be treated as citizens of non-member states.

Swiss take cue from EU members in corporate tax row

30. 05. 2013
Swiss take cue from EU members in corporate tax row
Switzerland is considering corporate tax incentives as offered by countries like Belgium, Britain and the Netherlands as it bows to European Union pressure to scrap its own controversial tax breaks.

NKBM Ready for Transfer of Bad Claims to Bad Bank

29. 05. 2013
NKBM Ready for Transfer of Bad Claims to Bad Bank
Slovenia's second biggest bank, NKBM, is ready to start transferring non-performing loans onto a bad bank, the bank said after a supervisory board meeting on Tuesday. The first transfers could expectedly be performed in July. The bank has also adopted more than 100 measures to improve its efficiency.

Apple CEO sees more 'gamechangers'; hints at wearable devices

29. 05. 2013
Apple CEO sees more 'gamechangers'; hints at wearable devices
Apple Inc Chief Executive Tim Cook defended the company's record of innovation under his stewardship, saying he expected it would release "several more game changers" and hinting that wearable computers could be among them.

Slovenia Active on OECD Ministerial

28. 05. 2013
Slovenia Active on OECD Ministerial
Foreign Minister Karl Erjavec is to take part this week in an OECD ministerial in Paris and hold separate meetings on the occasion with OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurria and French FM Laurent Fabius.

EU lifts embargo over arms to Syrian opposition

28. 05. 2013
EU lifts embargo over arms to Syrian opposition
There has been a seismic political shift in Brussels over Syria.

Fears of Syrian spillover in Lebanon

27. 05. 2013
Fears of Syrian spillover in Lebanon
Lebanon's state news agency says a rocket has been fired from the south of the country towards Israel. There is no news on who may be responsible, or of any damage or casualties.

Slovenia Hosting Adriatic-Ionian Meeting in Brussels

27. 05. 2013
Slovenia Hosting Adriatic-Ionian Meeting in Brussels
Slovenia will host a ministerial meeting of the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative in Brussels on Monday.

Police Arrested Fugitive Construction Boss

24. 05. 2013
Police Arrested Fugitive Construction Boss
Police have arrested construction boss Hilda Tovšak, who had been on the run for almost a week. The overnight arrest, made by police in Tovšak's hometown of Mislinja, NE, was announced by police early this morning.

UK police arrest two new suspects in soldier murder

24. 05. 2013
UK police arrest two new suspects in soldier murder
Two new suspects have been arrested by police investigating the violent killing of a British soldier in London on Wednesday.

Cameron chairs UK emergency response meeting

23. 05. 2013
Cameron chairs UK emergency response meeting
The UK government's emergency response committee will meet again this morning, in the wake of a machete killing in broad daylight on a London street.

EuroBasket 2013 to Get Postal Stamp

23. 05. 2013
EuroBasket 2013 to Get Postal Stamp
Post operator Pošta Slovenije will mark the European Basketball Championship 2013, which will be hosted by Slovenia in September, by launching a special stamp. The stamp, which was presented at a press conference on Wednesday, will be available as of Friday.

Senate panel passes immigration bill; Obama praises move

22. 05. 2013
Senate panel passes immigration bill; Obama praises move
A Senate panel on Tuesday approved legislation to give millions of illegal immigrants a path to citizenship, setting up a spirited debate next month in the full Senate over the biggest changes in immigration policy in a generation.

Key Fiscal Consolidation Measures Confirmed in Parliament

22. 05. 2013
Key Fiscal Consolidation Measures Confirmed in Parliament
The National Assembly passed legislation Tuesday putting into law the public sector pay deal signed by the government and trade unions on Monday and the government's motion to raise VAT, both constituent parts of fiscal consolidation measures. The changes were passed in a 49:32 vote.

Govt and Unions Sign Pay Deal

21. 05. 2013
Govt and Unions Sign Pay Deal
The government and public sector trade unions signed Monday an agreement that will bring about EUR 108.6m in savings this year and EUR 182.6m next year through pay cuts in the public sector.

At least 91 dead after tornado tears through Oklahoma

21. 05. 2013
At least 91 dead after tornado tears through Oklahoma
A tornado gusting at an estimated 320 kilometres per hour has cut a swathe through the US city of Oklahoma and surrounding state, leaving at least 91 dead and scores injured and missing.

NLB Back to Profit Next Year?

20. 05. 2013
NLB Back to Profit Next Year?
The chief supervisor of NLB Sašo Cunder and his deputy Stephan Wilcke told the STA in an interview that the bank could return to profit next year and be ready for privatization.

Syria army ‘in centre’ of Qusair amid assault on rebel town

20. 05. 2013
Syria army ‘in centre’ of Qusair amid assault on rebel town
Syrian government forces have launched a major offensive to retake the strategically important rebel stronghold of Qusair, near Lebanon.

Ljubljana to Host Outdoor Culinary Event

17. 05. 2013
Ljubljana to Host Outdoor Culinary Event
A new culinary project will be launched at the Ljubljana Central Market at 11 AM on Friday, featuring more than 50 Slovenian and foreign restaurants, master chefs and caterers. Until October, visitors of the first Slovenian "outdoor restaurant" will be able to taste their specialities and witness how they are made.

‘Assad must go’ say Turkey and the US

17. 05. 2013
‘Assad must go’ say Turkey and the US
There was a meeting of minds over a future Syria without President Assad but the US and Turkey differ over how to achieve it .

Brussels Approves EUR 166M for Slovenian Railway Project

16. 05. 2013
Brussels Approves EUR 166M for Slovenian Railway Project
The European Commission approved EUR 166m worth of cohesion funding for an upgrade of a key railway line in Slovenia on Wednesday.

Washington’s top tax official quits amid scandal

16. 05. 2013
Washington’s top tax official quits amid scandal
US tax agency chief Steve Miller has quit after it emerged his staff had singled out conservative groups for extra scrutiny. President Barack Obama announced his departure on Wednesday.

Syria set to dominate talks between Obama and Turkish PM

15. 05. 2013
Syria set to dominate talks between Obama and Turkish PM
Turkey’s prime minister says the Syrian crisis will be high on the agenda when he meets US President Barack Obama at the White House on Thursday.

Govt and Unions Agreed on Wage Cuts in Public Sector

15. 05. 2013
Govt and Unions Agreed on Wage Cuts in Public Sector
Measures to reduce the wage bill in the public sector are by and large agreed, trade union and government officials confirmed late on Monday as negotiations neared their completion. However, the final decision on whether the deal will be endorsed will depend on the relevant bodies of individual unions.

Slovenia Remains Committed to OSCE

14. 05. 2013
Slovenia Remains Committed to OSCE
Defence Minister Roman Jakič confirmed Slovenia's support for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) as he met OSCE Secretary General Lambert Zannier in Vienna on Monday. Jakič also met Austrian counterpart Gerald Klug, with whom he discussed bilateral cooperation.

UK: Conservatives to publish draft EU referendum bill

14. 05. 2013
UK: Conservatives to publish draft EU referendum bill
Britain’s ruling Conservatives are expected to unveil a draft bill that could make Prime Minister David Cameron’s promise of a referendum on the country’s EU membership legally binding.

Meeting of Adriatic-Ionian Initiative

13. 05. 2013
Meeting of Adriatic-Ionian Initiative
Parliamentary speakers from countries of the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative will meet at Brdo pri Kranju on Monday for their 11th conference. Hosted by Slovenia as the group's rotating chair, the participants are to discuss the formation of the Adriatic-Ionian macroregion and how national parliaments could help in the process.

The new face of the World Trade Organisation

13. 05. 2013
The new face of the World Trade Organisation
Russia has agreed to extend the term of its loan to Cyprus and reduce the interest rate to provide additional financial relief to the island. At the same time Olli Rehn laid much of the blame for Cyprus’s problems on its previous government.

New Taxes Instead of Public Sector Cuts

10. 05. 2013
New Taxes Instead of Public Sector Cuts
The government unveiled Thursday a plan to raise an additional EUR 540m with new taxes as part of efforts to balance the budget. This will be coupled with a roughly equal amount of spending cuts, Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek said.

15 State Companies Listed for Privatisation

10. 05. 2013
15 State Companies Listed for Privatisation
The government decided Thursday to privatize NKBM, Slovenia's second largest bank, Telekom Slovenije, the leading telecommunications provider, and another 13 smaller companies in a bid to get much needed funds to plug the gaping budget shortfall.

Accused Cleveland kidnapper appears in court and bailed for $8m

10. 05. 2013
Accused Cleveland kidnapper appears in court and bailed for $8m
The man accused of imprisoning three women in Cleveland, Ohio, has had his bail set at eight million US dollars – more than six million euros.

No Assad in Syria transition – US

10. 05. 2013
No Assad in Syria transition – US
The United States says Syria’s embattled president Bashar al-Assad should not be part of any transitional government for the country.

Questions mount on how Ohio women's captivity went undetected

08. 05. 2013
Questions mount on how Ohio women's captivity went undetected
Euphoria over the rescue of three Ohio woman from a decade-long kidnapping ordeal gave way to questions of how their captivity inside a house on a residential street in Cleveland went undetected for so long.

PM to Present Stability Plan to Social Partners, Opposition

08. 05. 2013
PM to Present Stability Plan to Social Partners, Opposition
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek will present the measures her government plans to implement to stabilize public finances to representatives of trade unions and employers on the Economic and Social Council on Wednesday morning. She will then unveil the drafts of documents expected by Brussels to the opposition.

UN expresses doubt about chemical weapons use in Syria

07. 05. 2013
UN expresses doubt about chemical weapons use in Syria
The United Nations is now saying it has no conclusive evidence of chemical weapons use in Syria.

Small Shareholders Want Safeguards in NKBM Privatisation

07. 05. 2013
Small Shareholders Want Safeguards in NKBM Privatisation
An association of small shareholders demanded safeguards Monday after Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek suggested in a recent interview that NKBM bank might be slated for privatisation as part of the government's efforts to raise much needed revenue.

One killed in attack on Catholic church in Tanzania

06. 05. 2013
One killed in attack on Catholic church in Tanzania
A suspected bomb attack on a new Catholic church in the mainly Christian north of Tanzania, possibly a petrol bomb thrown through a window, has killed at least one person and injured 57, some critically.

Slovenia Lose Ice Hockey Worlds Opener

06. 05. 2013
Slovenia Lose Ice Hockey Worlds Opener
Norway proved an insurmountable obstacle as Slovenia lost their opening game at the Ice Hockey World Championship 1:3 on Saturday.

US reconsidering arming Syrian rebels

03. 05. 2013
US reconsidering arming Syrian rebels
President Barack Obama’s defence chief says America is reconsidering arming rebel fighters in Syria.

Russian FM Lavrov to Visit Slovenia

03. 05. 2013
Russian FM Lavrov to Visit Slovenia
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will arrive in Slovenia on Friday for a working visit. He will meet President Borut Pahor, PM Alenka Bratušek and FM Karl Erjavec. The visit is expected to further strengthen bilateral ties based on a strategic partnership

New Taxes on the Horizon

30. 04. 2013
New Taxes on the Horizon
The government has been adamant that spending cuts need to be coupled with higher taxes in order to sort out Slovenia's public finances. A raise in the VAT rates is being mulled, but two party leaders suggested Friday several more taxes could be in the offing.

Amsterdam prepares to crown Dutch King Willem-Alexander

30. 04. 2013
Amsterdam prepares to crown Dutch King Willem-Alexander
The number of people in Amsterdam could double on Tuesday, as the Dutch city hosts the crowning of a new king.

Slovenia Completes Road Shows Ahead of Dollar Bonds Issue

29. 04. 2013
Slovenia Completes Road Shows Ahead of Dollar Bonds Issue
Slovenia is completing a series of road shows on Monday ahead of a planned issue of long-term debt, the Finance Ministry said in a press release. Depending on the market situation, the road shows conducted in US financial centres and London could be followed by a dollar bonds issue, the ministry said.

Two dead, eight missing after cargo ships collide off Greece

29. 04. 2013
Two dead, eight missing after cargo ships collide off Greece
Two people drowned and eight are missing after two cargo ships collided off southwestern Greece early on Monday, the Greek coastguard said.

Spain’s jobless total reaches a record six million

25. 04. 2013
Spain’s jobless total reaches a record six million
Spain’s unemployment rate has reached a record new high.

German Ambassador Confident Slovenia Can Beat Crisis On Its Own

25. 04. 2013
werner
Slovenia still has a good shot at beating the crisis on its own, German Ambassador Werner Burkart has said in an interview ahead of Slovenian President Borut Pahor's visit to Germany on Thursday.

Spain arrests 2 men suspected of al Qaeda group links

24. 04. 2013
Spain arrests 2 men suspected of al Qaeda group links
Madrid (CNN) -- Spanish police arrested two suspected terrorists with apparent links to an al Qaeda-affiliated group Tuesday but said they had no indication of an imminent attack.

President Going to Germany

24. 04. 2013
President Going to Germany
President Borut Pahor will pay a working visit to Germany on Thursday for talks with President Joachim Gauck, Chancellor Angela Markel, Bundestag President Norbert Lammert and members of the Bundestag's Foreign Policy Committee.

French embassy in Libya hit by 'car bomb' in Tripoli

23. 04. 2013
French embassy in Libya hit by 'car bomb' in Tripoli
A car bomb has exploded outside the French embassy in the Libyan capital Tripoli, officials are quoted as saying.

Slovenia Won Wine Dispute with Croatia

23. 04. 2013
Slovenia Won Wine Dispute with Croatia
The European Commission said on Monday that Croatian producers cannot sell wine under the name of Teran, which is recognised as originating in Slovenia's Kras under protected designation of origin. After Croatia joins the EU in July, the sale of Teran-labelled wine from the country will also not be allowed in Croatia.

Fin Minister in US: Slovenia in Better Shape Than Believed

22. 04. 2013
Fin Minister in US: Slovenia in Better Shape Than Believed
Finance Minister Uroš Čufer reiterated at a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington that Slovenia is not in as poor a shape as perceived and does not need international aid. He said the government will discuss the details of the planned privatisation on 9 May.

Syrian rebels claim Assad forces massacre 85 in Damascus

22. 04. 2013
Syrian rebels claim Assad forces massacre 85 in Damascus
Rebel sources in Syria say forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad killed at least 85 people, including women and children, after storming a Damascus suburb following five days of intense fighting.

Hollande Expresses Full Trust in Slovenia

19. 04. 2013
Hollande Expresses Full Trust in Slovenia
French President Francois Hollande said he fully trusts Slovenia will fix its banking sector and public finances and improve competitiveness, as he received President Borut Pahor in Paris on Wednesday. The Slovenian banking sector is capable of weathering its current problems

Boston: Police officer shot to death at MIT

19. 04. 2013
Boston: Police officer shot to death at MIT
A police officer for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology was shot to death on Thursday night at the school’s Cambridge campus, touching off a manhunt for a suspect or suspects in a community on edge just days after the Boston Marathon bombing.

Police Unions Against New Cuts in Public Sector

18. 04. 2013
Police Unions Against New Cuts in Public Sector
Slovenia's two police unions, the Trade Union of Police Offices (SPS) and the Police Trade Union of Slovenia (PSS), protested Tuesday against the government's proposal for further cuts to the public sector wage bill.

Anti-Thatcherites turn their back on Iron Lady’s coffin

18. 04. 2013
Anti-Thatcherites turn their back on Iron Lady’s coffin
The Thatcher coffin was generally greeted with applause and even cheers along the route, but not everyone was there to laud her achievements.

Elan Privatization Fails

17. 04. 2013
Elan Privatization Fails
The long-awaited privatization of ailing sports goods maker Elan has failed after London-based buyout fund Argus Capital revoked its offer. Despite the setback, the privatization process will continue, the Elan supervisory board said on Tuesday.

Police search for answers to the Boston bomb blasts

17. 04. 2013
Police search for answers to the Boston bomb blasts
Investigators combing the site of the Boston Marathon bombings have recovered components of the two devices which killed three people and injured 176 others.

PM Discussing Anti Crisis Measures With Chamber of Commerce

16. 04. 2013
PM Discussing Anti Crisis Measures With Chamber of Commerce
PM Alenka Bratušek will be meeting on Tuesday top officials of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GZS), the Manager Association and the Slovenian Employers' Association to debate measures designed to help Slovenia overcome the economic crisis.

Deadly explosions trigger panic at Boston Marathon

16. 04. 2013
Deadly explosions trigger panic at Boston Marathon
Two explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon have killed three people and injured more than a hundred in what is being treated as an act of terror by the authorities.

Tax Debtors Named in Name and Shame List

15. 04. 2013
Tax Debtors Named in Name and Shame List
A total of 16,000 companies and individuals are included in a name and shame list of tax debtors who together owe the state over EUR 900m published by the tax and customs administrations on Monday. The three biggest debtors are bankrupt companies.

Maduro narrowly wins Venezuela’s presidential poll

15. 04. 2013
Maduro narrowly wins Venezuela’s presidential poll
There have been wild celebrations across the Venezuelan capital Caracas following Nicolas Maduro’s victory in the presidential election.

Venezuela’s would-be Chavez successors crank up volume at last election rallies

12. 04. 2013
Venezuela’s would-be Chavez successors crank up volume at last election rallies
Venezuela's presidential contenders have held huge rallies as their campaigns draw to a close ahead of Sunday's election.

Slovenia With New Consulates in Turkey, Trinidad and Tobago

12. 04. 2013
Slovenia With New Consulates in Turkey, Trinidad and Tobago
The government decided on Thursday to open three new consulates in Turkey and one in Trinidad and Tobago. The consulates will be headed by honorary consuls, the government Communication Office said in a press release.

Brussels: Slovenia Must Work of Macroeconomic Imbalances

11. 04. 2013
Brussels: Slovenia Must Work of Macroeconomic Imbalances
A report by the European Commission warns Slovenia of excessive macroeconomic imbalances related foremost to the high indebtedness of companies, calling for immediate action to deal with the problem.

Foreigners remain in Pyongyang as residents are prepared for war

11. 04. 2013
Foreigners remain in Pyongyang as residents are prepared for war
Foreigners in Pyongyang still showed no signs of leaving North Korea a week after the Foreign Ministry warned that it could not guarantee their safety after April the tenth.

OECD: No Need for Slovenia to Seek Intl Aid

10. 04. 2013
OECD: No Need for Slovenia to Seek Intl Aid
The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) believes Slovenia does not currently need assistance from eurozone mechanisms. However, OECD deputy secretary general Yves Leterme told the press on Tuesday it needed to pursue further reforms.

Seoul increases surveillance as N Korea moves long-range missiles

10. 04. 2013
Seoul increases surveillance as N Korea moves long-range missiles
Seoul has raised its surveillance of North Korea believing the bellicose state could have moved one or more long range missiles to the east coast in readiness for a launch.

Tough Negotiations on Pay Cuts in Public Sector

09. 04. 2013
Tough Negotiations on Pay Cuts in Public Sector
Talks on pay cuts in the public sector got under way on Monday, but the negotiators did not progress beyond laying down the rules and agreeing to meet twice a week. Statements after the talks suggest the negotiating process will be tough and longer than the government plans.

Margaret Thatcher dies of a stroke aged 87

09. 04. 2013
Margaret Thatcher dies of a stroke aged 87
Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher has died of a stroke at the age of 87. The news was broken by a family spokesperson.

Pahor Calls First Slovenia 2030 Conference for 23 April

08. 04. 2013
Pahor Calls First Slovenia 2030 Conference for 23 April
President Borut Pahor has called the first conference as part of his Slovenia 2030 project for 23 April. He said in the invite sent out to a broad circle of "people with different views" on Saturday that the goal was to to form a long-term vision for Slovenia.

Portuguese PM vows further cuts

08. 04. 2013
Portuguese PM vows further cuts
The Portuguese government says it will further cut spending to meet bailout targets agreed with its lenders, after a constitutional court rejected four of its planned austerity measures.

Adria Airways Out of Red in 2013?

05. 04. 2013
Adria Airways Out of Red in 2013?
Slovenian flag carrier Adria Airways expects to break even in 2013, the STA learned from sources close to the airline. The company, which required a recapitalisation in 2011, reportedly improved its revenue per seat in the second half of 2012 and plans to increase its operating income by 2% and reduce cost by EUR 9m in 2013.

More pressure for Hollande over ex-treasurer scandal

05. 04. 2013
More pressure for Hollande over ex-treasurer scandal
French President Francois Hollande isn’t feeling the heat in quite the way he expected on his visit to Morocco.

16,000 Debtors Owe the State Nearly 1BN in Taxes

04. 04. 2013
16,000 Debtors Owe the State Nearly 1BN in Taxes
There are nearly 16,000 Slovenian companies and individuals with outstanding liabilities exceeding EUR 5,000 in taxes, which brings their total debt to nearly EUR 929.02m

North Korea threatens ‘merciless’ nuclear strike against US

04. 04. 2013
North Korea threatens ‘merciless’ nuclear strike against US
The North Korean army says it has received final approval to launch a “merciless” strike on the US, including the possible use of “cutting edge” nuclear weapons.

Parliament Confirmed New Infrastructure Minister

03. 04. 2013
Parliament Confirmed New Infrastructure Minister
The National Assembly appointed in a 49-29 vote on Tuesday Samo Omerzel to the post of minister for infrastructure and spatial planning. The 39-year-old replaces Igor Maher, who resigned amidst accusations that he owned an illegal build on the Slovenian coast.

France: ‘Cahuzac lied to the president of the republic’

03. 04. 2013
France: ‘Cahuzac lied to the president of the republic’
The admission that one of the pillars of the French cabinet lied repeatedly has sent shockwaves through French politics.

Mali crisis: EU troops begin training mission

02. 04. 2013
Mali crisis: EU troops begin training mission
An EU mission to train Malian soldiers is due to begin as part of efforts to help the West African country counter an Islamist insurgency.

Clampdown on Illegal Buildings Planned

02. 04. 2013
Clampdown on Illegal Buildings Planned
Recent revelations about rampant illegal construction, in particular on the coast, have led to calls for a clampdown on the practice and better oversight. The Surveying and Mapping Authority (GURS) thinks it has a solution.

Mass rally held as North Korea steps up threats

29. 03. 2013
Mass rally held as North Korea steps up threats
Thousands of North Koreans have turned out for a mass rally in Pyongyang, in support of their leaders’ call to arms.

Green Light for Central Bank Governor Candidate

29. 03. 2013
Green Light for Central Bank Governor Candidate
The parliamentary Commission for Credentials and Privileges unanimously endorsed on Thursday President Borut Pahor's nominee for central bank governor. Boštjan Jazbec, a senior adviser with the IMF, can apparently count on record support in parliament.

PM Reiterates Slovenia Does Not Need Aid

28. 03. 2013
PM Reiterates Slovenia Does Not Need Aid
Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek stressed Wednesday Slovenia will not need international aid. "Slovenia is capable of sorting things out itself," she told parliament in a Q&A session in the aftermath of speculation that Slovenia may be next in line after Cyprus to require a bailout.

Egyptian elections delayed until October

28. 03. 2013
Egyptian elections delayed until October
With almost daily clashes in Egypt the country’s president has announced parliamentary elections could now be delayed until October.

The trials of François

27. 03. 2013
The trials of François
To regain popularity France’s president must explain just what he is up to and why

Croatian PM to Attend Ratification of Accession Treaty in Ljubljana

27. 03. 2013
Croatian PM to Attend Ratification of Accession Treaty in Ljubljana
Croatian Prime Minister Zoran Milanović and Foreign Minister Vesna Pusić will attend Slovenia's ratification of Croatia's EU Accession Treaty in Slovenia's parliament on 2 April, Pusić announced on Tuesday.

Industrial Output Broadly Flat in January

26. 03. 2013
Industrial Output Broadly Flat in January
Slovenia's industry contracted by 0.2% in January on the month before, collapsing by 1.8% on the same month a year ago as decline in industrial output continues, the Statistic Office reported on Monday.

Bank re-opening delayed in Cyprus

26. 03. 2013
Bank re-opening delayed in Cyprus
Cyprus’ banks will now remain shut until Thursday, following the island’s controversial bailout deal. Most of them had been expected to re-open today.

Skiflying in Planica: Slovenia With 1st and 3rd Place

25. 03. 2013
Skiflying in Planica: Slovenia With 1st and 3rd Place
Slovenia's Jurij Tepeš won the last Ski Jumping World Cup event of the season on the giant hill in Planica to secure his first ever World Cup victory. Tepeš's feat was rounded off by his team-mate Peter Prevc in third place. Rune Velta placed second to secure Norway victory in the Nations Cup.

German and Italian presidents honour Nazi massacre victims

25. 03. 2013
German and Italian presidents honour Nazi massacre victims
Joachim Gauck has become the first German president to visit the site of one of the worst Nazi massacres in Italy.

Russian film »Aleksandr Nevski«, Wednesday 27th march at the Russian centre of Science and Culture

22. 03. 2013
Russian film »Aleksandr Nevski«, Wednesday 27th  march at the Russian centre of Science and Culture
The Russian centre of Science and Culture would like to invite you to attend lectures »Important events in the Russian history«. The lectures are dedicated to the 1150-year anniversary of the Slavic literacy and language.

Stamp exhibition "Art on Czech Stamps"

22. 03. 2013
Stamp exhibition
Invitation to the stamp exhibition "Art on Czech Stamps". The exhibition will take place from 25th march to 25th april in the main entrance of the post office in Ljubljana, at the address Slovenska cesta 32.

Life Ball 2013, Vienna

22. 03. 2013
Life Ball 2013
“Saving lives with imagination” is the link between Life Ball 2013 and its entertaining yet sensual source of inspiration: “1001 Nights”.

Congratulations and First Warnings for New Government

22. 03. 2013
Congratulations and First Warnings for New Government
Congratulations are coming in for Slovenia's new Prime Minister Alenka Bratušek after her cabinet was appointed on Wednesday. President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso expressed confidence that she would contribute to joint efforts to create the EU's new make-up.

Obama calls for compromise in Middle East

22. 03. 2013
Obama calls for compromise in Middle East
Style over substance that’s the description sceptics have used as US President Barack Obama continued his three-day tour of Israel and the West Bank.

Slovenia Opening The Doors For Croatia´s Accession to EU

21. 03. 2013
Slovenia Opening The Doors For Croatia´s Accession to EU
The parliamentary Foreign Policy Committee endorsed ratification of Croatia's EU Accession Treaty in a unanimous vote on Wednesday, which heralds a safe passage at the plenary session of the National Assembly, to be held by the end of March.

Cyprus to present new bailout plan

21. 03. 2013
Cyprus to present new bailout plan
The government of Cyprus said ministers must agree a “Plan B” for funding the island’s bailout on Thursday morning.

President to Attend Pope Francis's Installation Mass

20. 03. 2013
President to Attend Pope Francis's Installation Mass
President Borut Pahor will represent Slovenia at the mass celebrating the installation of Pope Francis in the Vatican on Tuesday. The installation mass will also be attended by the archbishops of Ljubljana and Maribor, Anton Stres and Marjan Turnšek.

Vladimir Putin and the holy land

20. 03. 2013
Vladimir Putin and the holy land
Warmer relations with Israel do not stop Russia backing Syria and Iran

Ex-Vice President Šušteršič Accuses DL of Political Gain

19. 03. 2013
Ex-Vice President Šušteršič Accuses DL of Political Gain
Ex-Finance Minister Janez Šušteršič, who has resigned as one of the two vice-presidents of Citizens' List (DL) after the party joined the emerging government coalition, is critical of the party's actions, accusing it of rushed and changeable decisions which he says have cost it a great deal of public support.

Israel: new government sworn in after weeks of horse-trading

19. 03. 2013
Israel: new government sworn in after weeks of horse-trading
Israel has a new government, nearly two months after inconclusive elections left Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu struggling to form a coalition.

Actor Boris Cavazza Wins Lifetime Showbiz Award

18. 03. 2013
Actor Boris Cavazza Wins Lifetime Showbiz Award
Boris Cavazza, one of the most acclaimed Slovenian theatre and film actors, won the Viktor 2012 for lifetime achievements as Slovenia's media and show business awards were given out on Saturday evening in Ljubljana's Cankarjev dom.

Bailout blackmail claims Cyprus president

18. 03. 2013
Bailout blackmail claims Cyprus president
The president of Cyprus has said he was given no choice by Brussels about accepting a painful tax on the country’s bank deposits in return for international aid.

Boss of Key Energy Firm Sacked

15. 03. 2013
Boss of Key Energy Firm Sacked
The director of Gen Energija, one of the key state-owned electricity producers and the manager of Slovenia's half of the Krško Nuclear Power Plant, was dismissed by the company's supervisory board on Thursday over "irresponsible conduct" regarding nuclear safety and poor business results.

EU leaders agree to a balance of growth and strict budgets

15. 03. 2013
EU leaders agree to a balance of growth and strict budgets
EU leaders meeting in Brussels for their Spring summit are in a frosty mood due to criticism back home against government-led austerity measures. Added to the European Parliament’s rejection of their 2014-2020 budget and the members were pleased to support an initiative to avoid the so-called lost generation effect.

Four Parties Sign Coalition Agreement

14. 03. 2013
Four Parties Sign Coalition Agreement
The heads of Positive Slovenia (PS), SocDems, Citizens' List (DL) and Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) signed on Wednesday a coalition agreement on participation in a new left-leaning government that is to replace the outgoing cabinet led by Janez Janša.

St Peter’s Square crowd celebrates ‘historic moment’

14. 03. 2013
St Peter’s Square crowd celebrates ‘historic moment’
They cheered, they celebrated, and they prayed in St Peter’s Square.

D Day for New Government Coalition

13. 03. 2013
D Day for New Government Coalition
The Citizens' List (DL) will be the last potential partner in the coalition of PM-designate Alenka Bratušek to reveal its official decision on joining the efforts to form a new government. After diverging statements from within the party, Wednesday's meeting of the DL council will show whether Bratušek has a majority in parliament.

Freak snowstorm hits parts of Europe

13. 03. 2013
Freak snowstorm hits parts of Europe
Many parts of Europe are struggling to return to normal after a freak snowstorm caused travel chaos.

More Cooperation Through Slovenian Qatar Association

12. 03. 2013
More Cooperation Through Slovenian Qatar Association
In the search of new markets, Qatar definitely presents the prominent ones. Qatar is one of the fastest world growing markets and is becoming the leading financial centre. The State offers numerous possibilities for Slovenian business and other organizations to succeed.

All eyes on the Vatican as the papal conclave begins

12. 03. 2013
All eyes on the Vatican as the papal conclave begins
The secret conclave to select a new pope begins on Tuesday, March 12.

Tina Maze on course for World Cup grand slam

11. 03. 2013
Tina Maze on course for World Cup grand slam
This season’s form skier Tina Maze put herself on track for a grand slam of crystal globes with victory in the slalom at Ofterschwang Germany.

"All-Slovenian Uprising" With the Lack of Protesters

11. 03. 2013
Just few thousands of protesters gathered in Ljubljana's Congress Square on Saturday for what is the fourth "All-Slovenian Uprising", the latest in a string of anti-establishment rallies to demand the resignation of "incompetent and corrupt political elites" and call for changes to give ordinary people more say in politics.

Berlusconi handed one year jail sentence in wiretapping scandal

08. 03. 2013
Berlusconi handed one year jail sentence in wiretapping scandal
Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been sentenced to one year in jail over illegal wiretapping.

Slovenia Will Ratify Croatia EU Treaty Within a Month

08. 03. 2013
Slovenia Will Ratify Croatia EU Treaty Within a Month
Slovenia could ratify Croatia's EU accession treaty within a month after both governments endorsed an agreement resolving the LB bank issue, outgoing Prime Minister Janez Janša told the press on Thursday.

Fourth night of violence in Port Said

07. 03. 2013
Fourth night of violence in Port Said
There have been pitched battles between protestors and police in Port Said for the fourth night running.

President Pahor Visiting Japan

07. 03. 2013
President Pahor Visiting Japan
President Borut Pahor met Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the outset of his visit to Japan on Wednesday. The pair discussed the potential to boost cooperation between the nations, especially in trade and investment.

Chavez dies: “Divisive” Chavez unites people in tribute

06. 03. 2013
Chavez dies: “Divisive” Chavez unites people in tribute
News of the death of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has united his supporters and detractors alike. In life, Chavez was a divisive figure, but in Caracas now there can be no doubt about how people feel.

Three Candidates for Central Bank Governor

06. 03. 2013
Three Candidates for Central Bank Governor
The office of President Borut Pahor has received three candidacies for the post of governor of the central bank, the Banka Slovenije, which will be vacated on 16 July when Marko Kranjec's six-year term ends.

Call for Applications for New Central Bank Governor Expires

05. 03. 2013
Call for Applications for New Central Bank Governor Expires
A call for applications for the new governor of central bank Banka Slovenije, published on 18 January by President Borut Pahor, expired on Tuesday. Media have been speculating about a number of potential candidates for the successor of governor Marko Kanjec

Fears grow over the health of Hugo Chavez

05. 03. 2013
Fears grow over the health of Hugo Chavez
In Venezuela, government officials say the health of President Hugo Chavez has taken a turn for the worse.

Coalition Talks Go Ahead

04. 03. 2013
Coalition Talks Go Ahead
Talks between the prospective partners in the Positive Slovenia (PS)-led coalition will intensify this week, as the four parties engaged in the negotiations - which are being held behind tightly closed doors - are expected to tackle key priorities.

Tensions remain in divided Egypt

04. 03. 2013
Tensions remain in divided Egypt
Clashes erupted in Cairo on Sunday when security forces attempted to re-open Tahrir Square to traffic after several months of being shut by protesters.

Syria crisis: John Kerry in Ankara for US-Turkey talks

01. 03. 2013
Syria crisis: John Kerry in Ankara for US-Turkey talks
New US Secretary of State John Kerry is visiting Turkey for talks expected to focus on the conflict in Syria. The two Nato allies both oppose Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, but differ on how best to support the opposition. On Thursday Mr Kerry promised direct aid to Syrian rebels in the form of food and medical supplies, but not the weapons they say they need to win.

First Meeting of Potential New Coalition Constructive

01. 03. 2013
First Meeting of Potential New Coalition Constructive
The heads of Positive Slovenia (PS), the Pensioners' Party (DeSUS), Social Democrats (SD) and the Citizens' List (DL) labelled a meeting they held on Thursday regarding future negotiations on the forming of a new government as constructive. PM-designate Alenka Bratušek said everyone was aware that concessions would be necessary.

Benedict XVI’s quiet departure during final hours as pope

28. 02. 2013
Benedict XVI’s quiet departure during final hours as pope
On Thursday February 28 at 20:00 CET Pope Benedict XVI will officially step down and slip quietly from public view.

Alenka Bratušek New PM-designate

28. 02. 2013
Alenka Bratušek New PM-designate
The National Assembly appointed Positive Slovenia (PS) interim head Alenka Bratušek Slovenia's first female prime minister-designate as it simultaneously dismissed in a no confidence vote the government of Prime Minister Janez Janša whose term lasted just over a year.

18 killed in Egyptian hot air balloon crash

27. 02. 2013
18 killed in Egyptian hot air balloon crash
Egyptian authorities now say at least 18 tourists were killed when a hot air balloon crashed in Luxor on Tuesday morning. These are mobile phone images of the place the balloon came down.

Revoz Sales Down 19% in 2012

27. 02. 2013
Revoz Sales Down 19% in 2012
Revoz, the Slovenian subsidiary of French car maker Renault, reported on Tuesday a 19% drop in net sales revenues, which amounted to EUR 911m, for 2012 as a result of a drop in demand on the European market. Net profit stood at EUR 12.8m, down from almost EUR 14m in 2011.

Supreme Court: Being PM is not a Human Right

26. 02. 2013
Supreme Court: Being PM is not a Human Right
The Supreme Court has rejected a request by Prime Minister Janez Janša to put a gag order on the report of the Corruption Prevention Commission that found Janša and Ljubljana Mayor Zoran Janković in violation of anti-corruption law. The corruption watchdog said it received the court's decision on Monday.

Protests in Ukraine as EU gives May ultimatum

26. 02. 2013
Protests in Ukraine as EU gives May ultimatum
EU leaders say visiting Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich has until May to show his nation has made progress towards political reform.

Up to 1 meter of New Snow Covered Slovenia Last Days

25. 02. 2013
Up to 1 meter of New Snow Covered Slovenia Last Days
Large swathes of Slovenia were covered by a fresh shipment of snow on Sunday, which raised the snow blanket to over a metre in some parts. The snow showers began to abate in the afternoon.

Leaders cast their votes on first day of Italy general election

25. 02. 2013
Leaders cast their votes on first day of Italy general election
Leader of the centre-left Democratic Party, Luigi Bersani, cast his vote in the Emilia Romagna city of Piacenza, as Italians take part in an election his party’s tipped to win by a small margin.

Pensioner´s Party Leaving Coalition Today

22. 02. 2013
Pensioner´s Party Leaving Coalition Today
The Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) is officially leaving coalition on Friday, with its president Karl Erjavec and vice-president Tomaž Gantar resigning as foreign and health ministers, respectively. Following the decision to quit the coalition in January by the Citizens' List (DL), DeSUS will be the second party to go.

Iran defies West with new centrifuge machines

22. 02. 2013
Iran defies West with new centrifuge machines
A confidential report by the UN’s nuclear watchdog the IAEA claims Iran has begun installing new generation centrifuge machines at Natanz.

White House develops new trade secret strategy

21. 02. 2013
White House develops new trade secret strategy
The White House has come up with a new strategy to combat what it says is a wave of trade secret thefts from China and other countries.

Abanka Needs EUR 90M Capital Increase

21. 02. 2013
Abanka Needs EUR 90M Capital Increase
The central bank, Banka Slovenije, has instructed the Abanka bank to introduce measures to increase core capital. It tasked the bank with calling a shareholders' meeting by the end of April and propose a capital increase in the amount of EUR 90m. The recapitalisation should be carried out by the end of July.

Slovenia, Croatia Urged to Solve Open Issues

20. 02. 2013
Slovenia, Croatia Urged to Solve Open Issues
The Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament backed on Tuesday the efforts of Slovenia and Croatia for the solving of the issue of the defunct LB bank and called for a timely ratification of Croatia's EU Accession Treaty.

Hollande in Greece, calls for new investment

20. 02. 2013
Hollande in Greece, calls for new investment
A nationwide news blackout greeted French President Francois Hollande as he arrived in Greece on Tuesday for his first visit there since taking office.

Fear of Foreign Capital Killing Slovenia

19. 02. 2013
Fear of Foreign Capital Killing Slovenia
The business daily Finance blames on Tuesday the problems of some of Slovenia's major banks and companies on the reluctance to embrace the ideals of meritocracy, which it says it rooted in Slovenia's historical experience under the yoke of Austria-Hungary and Yugoslavia.

US cardinal urged to stay away from conclave

19. 02. 2013
US cardinal urged to stay away from conclave
A Catholic association in the United States is urging a retired cardinal not travel to Rome for the ceremony to elect the new Pope.

Official: Slovenia's Vocational Education among Poorest in EU

18. 02. 2013
Official: Slovenia's Vocational Education among Poorest in EU
Slovenia is at the EU's tail in terms of vocational education, Science, Culture and Sport Mojca Škrinjar said on the sidelines of a ministerial in Brussels on Friday. To improve the situation, the ministry will organise a panel on the subject in early March.

Cyprus presidential vote heads for run-off

18. 02. 2013
Cyprus presidential vote heads for run-off
In Cyprus, Conservative leader Nicos Anastasiades has won the first round of the mediterranean island’s presidential election but failed to clinch an outright majority.

President Meeting Parliamentary Party Leaders

15. 02. 2013
President Meeting Parliamentary Party Leaders
President Borut Pahor will hold on Thursday a meeting with all parliamentary party heads, including Prime Minister Janez Janša. Most party heads do not believe the debate will bring a solution to the political situation in the country. They do however expect it to address some of the country's key projects.

Stricken cruise ship makes landfall

15. 02. 2013
Stricken cruise ship makes landfall
The Carnival Triumph limped into harbour in Alabama in the glare of television networks with more than 4,200 on board and reeking of raw sewage.

Cerar Not Ready to Accept PM Candidacy, For Now

14. 02. 2013
Cerar Not Ready to Accept PM Candidacy, For Now
Constitutional law expert Miro Cerar, who has been handled as a possible candidate for the PM of a potential new centre-left government, said on Wednesday he was not ready to stand for PM-designate for the time being, as the idea of a "project government" was lacking sufficient support.

Ukraine plane crash kills five football fans

14. 02. 2013
Ukraine plane crash kills five football fans
At least five people have been killed in a plane crash in Ukraine.

Central Bank: State Will Have to Sell Banks and Companies!

13. 02. 2013
Central Bank: State Will Have to Sell Banks and Companies!
Slovenian central bank governor Marko Kranjec reiterated in an interview with the Bančni vestnik newsletter that Slovenia would have to recapitalise and sell its state-owned banks and companies. "I see no other option," he said, warning that the debtors are in the hands of irresponsible owners.

UK police raid two firms in horsemeat scandal

13. 02. 2013
UK police raid two firms in horsemeat scandal
British police have raided a slaughterhouse and a meat processor suspected of selling horsemeat as beef.

Hundreds of Trucks Stuck Due to Heavy Snow in Italy

12. 02. 2013
Hundreds of Trucks Stuck Due to Heavy Snow in Italy
While conditions on Slovenian roads remain mostly trouble-free despite snow showers in many parts of the country on Monday, Slovenian authorities have been forced to pull out hundreds of lorries headed for Italy due to a ban on lorry traffic there.

Papal resignation sparks succession debate

12. 02. 2013
Papal resignation sparks succession debate
Roman Catholics are still absorbing the news that a pope is to resign for the first time in 600 years, however thoughts have quickly turned to who will succeed him.

Anniversary of Janša´s Government

11. 02. 2013
Anniversary of Janša´s Government
The Slovenian government is celebrating its first anniversary on Sunday, as parliament confirmed the cabinet of PM Janez Janša a year ago. Its first year in office was marked by fiscal consolidation, bank bailout efforts and relations with Croatia. Despite the efforts, it may well not celebrate its second anniversary.

“Conspiracy”, “mafia” – inquiry into horsemeat scandal under way

11. 02. 2013
“Conspiracy”, “mafia” – inquiry into horsemeat scandal under way
Government ministers in Britain are claiming a complex conspiracy lies behind the widening horsemeat scandal which they say has its roots in globalisation.

Social Democrats Pushing for Early Election

06. 02. 2013
Social Democrats Pushing for Early Election
The opposition Social Democrats (SD) have already launched registration of candidates in preparation for a potential early election with party leader Igor Lukšič all but ruling out an alternative coalition with the Positive Slovenia.

Gay marriage clears first vote hurdle in the UK

06. 02. 2013
Gay marriage clears first vote hurdle in the UK
After a full day of debate, same-sex marriage has been approved in England and Wales by a big majority in a key vote in Parliament.

Pensioners' Party Also to Leave Government

05. 02. 2013
Pensioners' Party Also to Leave Government
The council of the Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) will take a final decision on Tuesday on whether the party is to follow the example of the Citizens' List (DL) and leave the coalition. This was proposed two weeks ago by the DeSUS executive committee, which feels the party can no longer cooperate with PM Janez Janša.

Europol smashes global football match-fixing ring

05. 02. 2013
Europol smashes global football match-fixing ring
A suspected football match-fixing syndicate has been uncovered during an 18-month global investigation.

French and Italian prime ministers meet in Paris

04. 02. 2013
French and Italian prime ministers meet in Paris
The French and Italian prime ministers have met in Paris, a few days ahead of the next round of EU budget talks in Brussels on Thursday.

Parliament to Meet on Urgent Session About Arbitration

04. 02. 2013
Parliament to Meet on Urgent Session About Arbitration
The National Assembly is expected to hold a closed-door session dedicated to the memorandum for the arbitration on the border with Croatia on Monday after the government postponed the adoption of the documents several times.

More Foreigners Visit Slovenia

01. 02. 2013
Slovenia registered a 2.3% rise in visitor arrivals last year with the number of overnight stays up 1.2% compared with 2011, according to the Statistics Office. The rise is owing to foreign visitors.

Mexico City skyscraper explosion kills 25

01. 02. 2013
Mexico City skyscraper explosion kills 25
There has been a powerful explosion at a skyscraper in the heart of Mexico City that has left at least 25 people dead and injured 100 more.

Slovenia Congratulates New US Secretary of State

31. 01. 2013
Slovenia Congratulates New US Secretary of State
Foreign Minister Karl Erjavec congratulated on Wednesday the new US Secretary of State John Kerry on his appointment and wished him a lot of success, the Foreign Ministry said in a press release.

Syrian opposition leader Alkhatib open to talks

31. 01. 2013
Syrian opposition leader Alkhatib open to talks
The head of Syria’s main opposition coalition says he is ready to sit down with representatives of President Bashar al-Assad.

President Pahor to Visit Japan in March

30. 01. 2013
President Pahor to Visit Japan in March
President Borut Pahor plans to visit Japan in early March accompanied by a business delegation, his foreign policy adviser, Marko Makovec, told Tuesday's Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GZS) meeting on doing business with Japan.

French parliament kicks off debate on gay marriage bill

30. 01. 2013
French parliament kicks off debate on gay marriage bill
Following weeks of mass demonstrations both for and against legalising gay marriage and adoptions, the French parliament has started debating the proposed legislation.

Parliament to Debate Arbitration Agreement with Croatia

29. 01. 2013
Parliament to Debate Arbitration Agreement with Croatia
The parliamentary Foreign Policy Committee is to get acquainted on with "the information on preparations for Slovenia defence before the arbitral tribunal" deciding on the border with Croatia. The confidential brief has not yet been okayed by the government.

Egypt’s opposition say no to Mursi’s dialogue

29. 01. 2013
Egypt’s opposition say no to Mursi’s dialogue
Day five of the latest Egyptian anti-government protests and the streets of Cairo were simmering with violence again.

PM Meets Reps of Slovenians in Chile

28. 01. 2013
PM Meets Reps of Slovenians in Chile
Prime Minister Janez Janša met on Saturday with representatives of Slovenian living in Chile, ahead of an EU-Latin America summit in Santiago de Chile. Janša thanked the representatives for their role in international recognition of Slovenia

Death toll rises to 230 after Brazil nightclub blaze

28. 01. 2013
Death toll rises to 230 after Brazil nightclub blaze
Relatives and friends have gathered at a school gym-turned-makeshift-morgue to mourn the victims of a nightclub fire in southern Brazil.

Egypt opposition in clashes on revolution anniversary

25. 01. 2013
Egypt opposition in clashes on revolution anniversary
Egyptian opposition supporters are gathering in central Cairo to mark two years since the start of the uprising that swept Hosni Mubarak from power.

FinMin Proposes New Taxes Before Leaving Govt

25. 01. 2013
FinMin Proposes New Taxes Before Leaving Govt
Outgoing Finance Minister Janez Šušteršič has filed proposals for taxes on sweet beverages and lottery tickets before leaving the government. Šušteršič said at a press conference on Friday that the most important task of the ministry was to continue setting up a bad bank and the Slovenia Sovereign Holding.

Strike: Schools, Kindergartens Closed, Institutes Limit Work

24. 01. 2013
Strike: Schools, Kindergartens Closed, Institutes Limit Work
A general strike of public sector employees started on Wednesday with almost all schools and kindergartens in the country closed and the scope of work limited in many other public sector institutions. Due to a work-to-rule of customs officers tailbacks were reported on border crossings.

EU leaders rattled by UK plans for a referendum on membership

24. 01. 2013
EU leaders rattled by UK plans for a referendum on membership
British Prime Minister David Cameron has promised a referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union by 2017, provided he is re-elected.

Slovenia Joins Celebrations of Elysee Treaty Anniversary

23. 01. 2013
Slovenia Joins Celebrations of Elysee Treaty Anniversary
A celebration was held in Ljubljana on Tuesday to mark the 50th anniversary of the Elysee Treaty, which set the foundations for reconciliation between Germany and France. President Borut Pahor said the accord also gave new impetus to European cooperation.

Netanyahu to go for a “broad coalition”

23. 01. 2013
Netanyahu to go for a “broad coalition”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emerged from Israel’s election poised to form its next government, according to exit polls.

The End of Government Coalition Today?

22. 01. 2013
The End of Government Coalition Today?
The ultimatum put to PM Janez Janša by the junior coalition Citizens' List (DL) expires on Tuesday, with the latest statements coming from the ruling Democrats (SDS) indicating the DL will not achieve Janša's resignation over graft accusations and thus leave the coalition Wednesday.

Obama holds scaled back inauguration

22. 01. 2013
Obama holds scaled back inauguration
The US presidential couple rounded off inauguration day with a turn on the dance floor at a celebratary ball.

Algerian security forces confirm 48 hostages dead

21. 01. 2013
Algerian security forces confirm 48 hostages dead
The four-day crisis at the In Amenas gas plant in Algeria is over, but questions remain and the death toll continues to rise.

PM Thinks that Govt Opponents Scared of Its Success

21. 01. 2013
PM Thinks that Govt Opponents Scared of Its Success
The government has been striving to stabilise public finance and resolve key problems, however some political and civil society players have "become scared of the government's success and have been trying to destabilise the country since November"

First-Class Political Comedy: Communist Conspiracy To Overthrow PM

18. 01. 2013
First-Class Political Comedy: Communist Conspiracy To Overthrow PM
While Slovenian Public is waiting for PM Janša´s answer or response to government and general political crisis that followed Corruption Prevention Commission Report which showed that PM Janša and Mayor of Ljubljana "forgot" to declare certain parts of their property, the ruling Democrats (SDS) sent "their friends and partners around the EU" a letter explaining their side of the story behind the political situation.

Kidnapped French hostage killed by Somali militants

18. 01. 2013
Kidnapped French hostage killed by Somali militants
French intelligence agent Denis Allex has been reportedly killed by Somali militants linked to al Qaeda.

No Decision Yet on Slovenia Accepting Guantanamo Detainees

17. 01. 2013
No Decision Yet on Slovenia Accepting Guantanamo Detainees
The Foreign Ministry and the US Embassy have denied media reports that two prisoners from the Guantanamo camp on Cuba would arrive in Slovenia in the coming weeks.

Algerian Army surrounds hostage gas facility

17. 01. 2013
Algerian Army surrounds hostage gas facility
The Algerian army has surrounded a gas plant in the east of the country where Islamist militants claim to be holding 41 foriegn workers hostage.

President For FT: Slovenia Has No Need for Bailout

16. 01. 2013
President For FT: Slovenia Has No Need for Bailout
Slovenia has "no need whatsoever" for an EU bailout, President Borut Pahor has told the Financial Times. He also called for improving the country's scandal-hit justice system and moving beyond austerity to begin reinvesting in the country's infrastructure.

EU debate over French support in Mali heats up

16. 01. 2013
EU debate over French support in Mali heats up
Military support comes in many different forms. And as France continues it’s intervention in Mali, the wider EU debate over just what kind of assistance to give to the French rages on.

Postojna Caves Attract Visitors from East Asia

15. 01. 2013
Postojna Caves Attract Visitors from East Asia
Slovenia's top tourist attraction, the Postojna Caves, managed to avert a decline in turnout last year by offsetting the drop in the Italian and domestic markets by a surge in visitors from East Asia.

French attack to contain Islamists in Mali

15. 01. 2013
French attack to contain Islamists in Mali
French military intervention in north Mali is aimed at stopping a radical Islamic takeover of the territory.

Citizens' List Calls on Janša to Resign or Call Confidence Vote

14. 01. 2013
Citizens' List Calls on Janša to Resign or Call Confidence Vote
The coalition Citizens' List (DL) of Parliamentary Speaker Gregor Virant demanded Saturday that Prime Minister Janez Janša resign or call a vote of confidence in parliament in the next ten days.

Costa Concordia memorial events held in Italy

14. 01. 2013
Costa Concordia memorial events held in Italy
Survivors of the Costa Concordia shipwreck joined relatives of the 32 people who died to mark the passing of a year since the tragedy.

Bomb attacks in two Pakistan cities kill dozens

11. 01. 2013
Bomb attacks in two Pakistan cities kill dozens
In a black day for Pakistan, bombings in two cities have left well over 100 people dead.

Speaker Hosts Meeting on Holding Supervisors

11. 01. 2013
Speaker Hosts Meeting on Holding Supervisors
Parliamentary Speaker Gregor Virant is scheduled to hold a meeting on Thursday with formal proponents of supervisors for the newly-established Slovenia Sovereign Holding as he seeks to eliminate partisanship in the appointment procedure.

Public Sector Unions Announce Rallies in Major Cities

10. 01. 2013
Public Sector Unions Announce Rallies in Major Cities
The committee coordinating preparations for the 23 January general work-to-rule strike in the public sector decided on Tuesday for a 24-hour strike which will include rallies in nine large cities beginning at five minutes past noon.

Syria: Freed Iranian prisoners arrive in Damascus

10. 01. 2013
Syria: Freed Iranian prisoners arrive in Damascus
Forty-eight Iranian prisoners set free by Syrian rebels received a warm greeting at the Sheraton Hotel in central Damascus on Wednesday.

Watchdog Finds Janša, Janković in Violation of Anti-Graft Law

09. 01. 2013
Watchdog Finds Janša, Janković in Violation of Anti-Graft Law
Examining the assets of parliamentary party leaders, the Corruption Prevention Commission has found that the heads of two biggest parliamentary parties, Janez Janša of the ruling Democrats (SDS) and Zoran Janković of the opposition Positive Slovenia (PS), have violated anti-corruption legislation.

French Budget Minister Jerôme Cahuzac investigated for tax fraud

09. 01. 2013
French Budget Minister Jerôme Cahuzac investigated for tax fraud
The man in charge of France’s tax policy is himself being investigated over allegations of tax fraud.

PM Janša to Receive Carinthia Governor Dörfler

08. 01. 2013
PM Janša to Receive Carinthia Governor Dörfler
Prime Minister Janez Janša is to receive Carinthian Governor Gerhard Dörfler on Tuesday for talks on the situation of the Slovenian minority in this Austrian province, which was also the subject of Janša's meeting with representatives of the minority on Monday.

Controversial appointments as Obama hands Hegel and Brennen top jobs

08. 01. 2013
Controversial appointments as Obama hands Hegel and Brennen top jobs
President Barack Obama is well into his second-term government reshuffle, announcing on Monday new appointments to the key national security and defence portfolios.

President: Peace is Not Self-Evident

07. 01. 2013
President: Peace is Not Self-Evident
President Borut Pahor highlighted the importance and fragility of peace and urged unity as he addressed on Saturday a ceremony honouring in the Pohorje hills near Maribor the 70th anniversary of a WWII battle of unequals that saw the Germany army erasing a 69-strong Partisan battalion.

West dismisses Assad’s speech as meaningless

07. 01. 2013
West dismisses Assad’s speech as meaningless
The US has dismissed a speech made by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as ‘a meaningless attempt to retain power’ and called on him to step down.

Ombudsman Pick Will Be a Challenge for President Pahor

04. 01. 2013
Ombudsman Pick Will Be a Challenge for President Pahor
President Borut Pahor started consultations with parliamentary parties on the candidate for a new human rights ombudsman on Thursday.

Chávez suffering ‘complications’ from lung infection

04. 01. 2013
Chávez suffering ‘complications’ from lung infection
The Venezuelan government says President Hugo Chávez has experienced complications and is having trouble breathing as he responds to cancer treatment in Cuba.

Slovenia Requests for EU Aid after Autumn Floods

03. 01. 2013
Slovenia Requests for EU Aid after Autumn Floods
Slovenia filed on Wednesday an official request for aid from the EU solidarity fund to help cover the damage caused in the massive floods that hit the country in late October and early November 2012. The Economic Ministry expects an answer from the EU in the second half of the year.

Monti opens campaign with pledge to cut labour taxes

03. 01. 2013
Monti opens campaign with pledge to cut labour taxes
Italy’s outgoing Prime Minister Mario Monti has promised to cut labour taxes to fuel growth on at the start of his campaign for a second term.

Main Challenges For Slovenia in 2013

02. 01. 2013
Main Challenges For Slovenia in 2013
Efforts to overcome the economic crisis will continue to dominate the agenda in Slovenia in 2013. With Slovenia facing a second consecutive year of economic contraction, reforms and measures to balance the budget are likely to occupy social partners for most of the year.

Athens provides more free meals for the festive period

02. 01. 2013
Athens provides more free meals for the festive period
To mark New Year’s Day, a free meal was organised for the homeless and poor in Athens – although soup kitchens in Greece have been busy since the euro crisis set in.