The pair agreed that only a functional and connecting European cohesion policy can generate added value and lead to a reduction of development gaps between different regions, as it influences the situation on the labour market, economic growth and the quality of life of all European citizens, the parliament's press service said.

As for social policies, Židan said Slovenia, an ageing society, was facing challenges in long-term care, the pension system and healthcare.

Doskozil, who is paying his first visit to Slovenia, stressed common topics needed to be discussed openly and with a view to finding a common language.

The Austrian Press Agency has reported that Doskozil, who started a two-day visit, is also scheduled to meet Development and European Cohesion Policy Minister Iztok Purič, with whom he is to visit the Ljubljana Technological Park to get briefed on two projects that also involve a school from Burgenland. He is to conclude his visit by meeting Justice Minister Andreja Katič.