Slovenia Is Entering Period of Maturity as Stable and Safe Country, Says PM on National Day

Ptuj, 25 June - "Eleven years since becoming a state Slovenia is entering a period of maturity. It has become a stable and safe country which is firmly rooted in international relations," LDS leader and Prime Minister Janez Drnovsek said in an address to his party's traditional gathering on the National Day in the eastern city of Ptuj on Tuesday. He also used this occassion to reiterate that the year 2002 is a turning point which will end an important period of Slovenia's efforts towards EU and NATO membership.