The theme of the meeting is the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region as an answer to common challenges in the region and a mechanism on the Western Balkan countries' path towards the EU. An important part of the discussions is set to be the expression of support to members of the initiative that are yet to join the EU.

The opening address will be delivered by Foreign Minister Karl Erjavec, while the meeting at the headquarters of Slovenia's mission to the EU will mostly be attended by deputy foreign ministers. Croatia is expected to be represented by Deputy Minister Hrvoje Marušić.

Founded in Italy's Ancona in 2000, the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative brings together eight countries along the Adriatic and Ionian seas: Slovenia, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Greece, Croatia, Italy, and Serbia.

Slovenia will hand over the chairmanship of the initiative to Albania at the end of this month. Every chairing country's term ends with the adoption of a statement in which the countries map out the path ahead.