Clinton Administration to Support Lifting of U.N. Arms Embargo on Slovenia

Strategic Insights -

The Clinton administration has decided to support lifting the U.N.-imposed weapons embargo on Slovenia, a move that could allow the country to effectively participate in the NATO's Partnership for Peace program. This decision marks a reversal of the administration's previous policy, which stated that the United States and NATO would not support membership in the plan for nations of the former Yugoslavia until hostilities in Bosnia-Herzegovina cease and those nations exhibit respect for international law. U.S. officials believe that Slovenia's efforts to reform its economy, democratize its political system, and support the U.N. economic embargo on Serbia warrant recognition and support.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Clinton administration will support lifting the U.N.-imposed weapons embargo on Slovenia to allow the country to participate in the Partnership for Peace program.
  • The decision marks a reversal of the administration's previous policy, which opposed membership of nations from the former Yugoslavia in the program until hostilities in Bosnia-Herzegovina cease and those nations exhibit respect for international law.
  • Slovenia has taken steps to reform its economy, democratize its political system, and support the U.N. economic embargo on Serbia, earning recognition from the U.S. for its constructive efforts.
  • The U.S. officials believe that lifting the embargo will not pose a risk to regional stability, as Slovenia is seen as a "shining example of East Bloc reform."
  • Slovenia formally signed onto the Partnership for Peace program on Wednesday at NATO headquarters in Brussels.
  • The Slovenian government has modernized its arsenal to effectively participate in the Partnership for Peace program.

Statistics:

  • The U.N.-imposed weapons embargo on Slovenia has been in place for two years.
  • Slovenia has supported the U.N. economic embargo on Serbia.
  • Slovenia has admitted thousands of Balkan refugees.
  • The State Department stated in February that hosting nations in the former Yugoslavia must respect international law to be eligible for participation in the Partnership for Peace program.

Sources:

  • United Press International (UPI) - An anonymous State Department official involved in formulating policy toward Slovenia.
  • United Press International (UPI) - U.S. officials said Vice President Al Gore met with Slovenian President Milan Kucan at the White House on Tuesday.
  • United Press International (UPI) - A senior aide to U.S. Secretary of State Warren Christopher.
  • United Nations Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali - Slovenia's request to lift the U.N.-imposed arms embargo was submitted to him.
  • NATO headquarters in Brussels - Slovenia formally signed onto the Partnership for Peace program.