Bled – The 20th Bled Strategic Forum (BSF) in Slovenia centers on Europe’s global role. European Council President Antonio Costa pushed for a more autonomous Europe, while the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas voiced her frustration over the EU’s inability to address Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The Bled Strategic Forum is Slovenia’s key foreign policy event, occurring annually at summer’s end, attracting over 2000 participants this year. Titled “A World in Escape,” the forum, according to Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon, aims to highlight various armed conflicts, a deteriorating world order, and breaches of international law, focusing on Europe’s role in this shifting global landscape.
President Costa, a prominent figure at the forum, called for a more resilient and sovereign Europe during his opening remarks, especially in light of the recent EU-US trade agreement and diplomatic efforts to address Russian aggression in Ukraine.
He stated, “We advocate for a world where peace is upheld, partnerships are genuine, and the principles of the United Nations Charter are respected – in both words and actions.”
Costa condemned the humanitarian crisis and famine in Gaza amidst escalating Israeli attacks. He urged for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian aid access, a stop to illegal Israeli settlements in occupied territories, and a renewed commitment to a two-state solution.
Kallas expressed her disappointment regarding the EU’s response capabilities to the situation in Gaza, stating, “I have been striving hard to ensure we are united in our response, as I believe the credibility of the European Union is also at stake.”
Costa also discussed the future of Europe, emphasizing that the integration of the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine into the EU is a priority. “These countries are central to Europe’s future. We must prepare the union for enlargement through reforms, budget adjustments, and enhanced governance. Enlargement will be challenging, but it will be worthwhile,” he stated before the forum’s discussion on union enlargement.
Participating in the discussion were the prime ministers of Slovenia, Croatia, Albania, and Montenegro, alongside European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.
Kos highlighted that enlargement transcends merely increasing the EU’s size and population. “For me, enlargement today (…) also represents a unification of Europe that we have never experienced in history,” she remarked. (September 1)
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