New York, 26 June 2009 – The UN Conference on the World Financial and Economic Crisis and its Impact on Development ends today with the adoption of an outcome document.  At the Conference, which is being held under the auspices of the General Assembly, all 192 UN Member States will have an opportunity to express their views on the global financial and economic crisis.

 

The Slovenian delegation is headed by Ambassador Andrej Benedejčič, Director General for Global and Multilateral Affairs, who also participated in the discussion at the plenary meeting of the Conference. He advocated a balanced approach to the discussion on anti-crisis measures, saying that they cannot interfere with the basic principles of the free market. At the same time, he expressed his support for efforts to implement certain structural reforms to ensure greater stability in the financial markets and the global economy.

 

In the light of the fact that the financial crisis has most affected developing countries, he also pointed out that Slovenia devotes particular attention to the Western Balkan countries. He said that the Slovenian side is determined to fulfil its commitments regarding the Official Development Assistance within the framework of the Millennium Development Goals.

 

Director General Benedejčič also underlined the social and human dimensions, including the possibility of xenophobia relating to protectionist measures. This is why Slovenia, in its capacity as Chair of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, is devoting special attention to the promotion of children's and minority rights, particularly the rights of Roma and Travellers.

 

In addition, he presented Slovenia's plans to organise a discussion on a number of issues relating to the global financial and economic crisis within the framework of the 4th Bled Strategic Forum at the end of August.