The two-day event marking the alliance's 70th anniversary included a meeting on Wednesday at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium, where the twelve NATO founding countries signed the North Atlantic Treaty on 4 April, 1949.

The ministers assessed the general situation in the relations between NATO and Russia, and also discussed concrete issues, such as the status of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF).

Cerar said that Slovenia actively contributed to the alliance's enhanced defensive and deterrent stance as part of NATO Enhanced Forward Presence by participating in NATO exercises, the ministry said.

At the same time, Slovenia supports enhanced dialogue between NATO and Russia, which is necessary in the given circumstances, he said, adding that "we must not forget about NATO partners in the region, in particular Georgia and Ukraine."

Regarding the INF, the minister said that the treaty was of key importance for safety in the NATO members, stressing that alternative solutions should be given a thought if the treaty got suspended.

Slovenia remains firmly committed to keeping effective international supervision over armament, disarmament and non-proliferation, Cerar added.

The minister also discussed the fight against terrorism, the situation in NATO's southern neighbourhood and the Afghanistan peace process.

Cerar said Slovenia supported a comprehensive engagement of NATO in the southern neighbourhood, adding that assistance to the partners in the region, including in boosting their defensive capacities, was the best way to increase stability and prevent terrorism.

Slovenia is also aware of the importance of the Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan, which is why it remains committed to establishing a stable situation in the long run and supports the efforts towards peace and a comprehensive political solution.