As part of her first visit to a neighbouring country since taking office in March, Bratušek is scheduled to meet Chancellor Werner Faymann and Speaker of Parliament Barbara Prammer.

The prime minister's office said that the visit will "be an opportunity for talks on current bilateral and European issues, as well as international developments of significance for both countries".

Austria is one of Slovenia's most important trade partners and talks are expected to focus heavily on the crisis, especially on measures taken by the Slovenian government to restart the country's economy.

As part of the focus on the crisis, Bratušek is also scheduled to meet with Austrian central bank Governor Ewald Nowotny and representatives of a number of Austrian firms.

The talks with Austrian officials are also expected to broach issues related to the Slovenian minority in Austria.

The prime minister met representatives of the Slovenian minority in Austria on Wednesday, stressing the importance that the community plays in bringing the countries closer.