Bandelj, 44, met Minister for Slovenians Abroad Gorazd Žmavc Monday and said the new leadership was now rejuvenated, which raises the hope that it will be able to cope with the challenges that the Slovenian community in Italy faces.

The minority plans to set up new economic mechanisms and enhance cooperation with the other major Slovenian organisation in Italy, the Slovenian Cultural and Economic Union, Bandelj was quoted as saying by the Office for Slovenians Abroad.

Bandelj, a banker, had been in charge of the Gorizia chapter of the SSO for two terms prior to being elected the new leader. He is also a local councillor in Gorizia.