Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister of Spain, met with Slovenia’s Prime Minister, Robert Golob, at La Moncloa to discuss the exemplary relations between their countries. The leaders emphasised their alignment on key issues such as the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and collaborative efforts for European security and defence. Sánchez noted that the economic links between Spain and Slovenia are thriving, promising to further strengthen these ties.

In their discussions, both leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, advocating for a just and lasting peace grounded in international law. Regarding the Middle East conflict, they issued a joint declaration on the first anniversary of Spain and Slovenia’s recognition of the State of Palestine. They reiterated the need to work towards a two-state solution and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The joint declaration calls for Israel to urgently lift its blockade on Gaza and ensure unimpeded humanitarian access coordinated by the United Nations. It rejects the Israeli aid plan that could lead to further displacement of Palestinians and expresses strong opposition to the increasing violence in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Additionally, Sánchez and Golob called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire. The declaration also references a recent meeting in Madrid and underscores the significance of the upcoming high-level conference in New York next month. Both countries are advocating for a review of the European Union’s association agreement with Israel, emphasising the necessity of human rights respect as outlined in its article two, while considering sanctions against violent Israeli settlers and an arms embargo on Israel.