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Inspection of Embassy Ljubljana, Slovenia (ISP-I-03-05)

Embassy Ljubljana has set its highest priority on preparing Slovenia and Washington for the upcoming decision on whether Slovenia will be invited to join NATO. This priority designation is appropriate, as this issue affects not only U.S.- Slovenian relations but also broader U.S. strategic interests in Europe and in the Balkans. However, given the limited resources allocated to this SEP mission, the embassy is less able to exploit other opportunities in the relationship.

The embassy has grown recently to seven officers and will increase further with the addition of a temporary political/military position and a possible new assistant defense attach? position. This is a substantial staff for a SEP mission, but may be appropriate, given the increased workload associated with Slovenia?s NATO candidacy and membership.

Embassy Ljubljana?s SEP designation may no longer be appropriate and should be reviewed. Political and economic reporting is solid. Under the current Ambassador, the embassy has improved its reputation for objective reporting. The public affairs section is fully engaged and effective but is straining to handle multiple demands with minimal staff.

The embassy, with assistance from OBO, should actively pursue the possibility of acquiring property adjacent to the mission to improve operational efficiency and security and to address a potential increase in the consular workload that would result from any elimination of the visa waiver system.