India condemns defacement of Embassy premises in Slovenia, calls for action against perpetrators
New Delhi, Aug 10
India on Monday condemned the defacement of the premises of its Embassy in Slovenia by anti-India elements and called for holding the perpetrators accountable.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "Under the Vienna Convention, diplomatic premises are inviolable and must be protected. We have taken up the matter strongly with Slovenian authorities, both in New Delhi and in Ljubljana, so that the perpetrators behind such reprehensible acts are held accountable."
The MEA urged law enforcement authorities to take note of the hateful propaganda and disinformation being spread by such groups.
Last month, India's Ambassador to Slovenia, Amit Narang, met Slovenia's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tone Kajzer and held discussions on ongoing bilateral cooperation.
"Ambassador Amit Narang was honoured to call on H.E. Tone Kajzer, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia, yesterday at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia. The Ambassador handed over a personal letter of congratulations from the External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar to the Minister," the Embassy of India in Ljubljana wrote on X.
"Productive and wide-ranging discussions focused on specific steps to elevate the warm and friendly ties between India and Slovenia into a mutually beneficial partnership for the future," it added.
On June 24, Sibi George, Secretary (West), MEA, represented India at Slovenia's National Day celebrations at the country's Embassy in New Delhi.
Secretary (West) Ambassador Sibi George represented India at the National Day celebrations of the Republic of Slovenia. He reaffirmed the commitment to the longstanding India-Slovenia partnership and further strengthening cooperation in new areas of mutual interest. He also appreciated Slovenia's steadfast support to India in the fight against cross-border terrorism," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) wrote on X.
On May 28, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Janez Jansa on his election as Slovenia's Prime Minister and expressed readiness to work closely with him to further strengthen bilateral ties.
"Heartiest congratulations to Mr. Janez Jansa on his election as the Prime Minister of Slovenia. I look forward to working closely with him to further strengthen our bilateral ties for the shared prosperity and mutual benefit of our people," PM Modi posted on X.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Why do such elements always target our embassies abroad? The Vienna Convention clearly states that diplomatic premises are inviolable. Slovenia should investigate and punish the culprits quickly. We need to strengthen our diplomatic security everywhere.
Good to see India taking this up strongly at both New Delhi and Ljubljana levels. The MEA's statement is clear and firm. These hateful propaganda groups should not be allowed to disrupt our bilateral ties with Slovenia. Well handled.
The defacement of our embassy is a direct affront to our nation's dignity. It's good that Ambassador Amit Narang is actively engaging with Slovenian authorities. India's diplomatic response has been prompt and appropriate. Kudos to the embassy team.
While I condemn the act, I hope India also addresses why such anti-India sentiments exist among certain groups. Strong diplomatic action is needed, but so is countering the disinformation that fuels such hatred. Otherwise, this will keep repeating.
India-Slovenia relations seem to be growing well, with recent high-level interactions. This incident is unfortunate, but the swift diplomatic response ensures the bilateral partnership remains strong. Hope Slovenia takes appropriate legal action.
Absolutely right, MEA! The Vienna Convention protects diplomatic premises. These groups should face serious consequences. Proud of our diplomatic team for their vigorous response. India will not be intimidated by such acts. 💪🇮🇳
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