On January 21, 2025, RDCY Forum for Area Studies, Ambassador Forum No.5 was held. Boštjan Malovrh, Ambassador of Slovenia to China, delivered a keynote speech titled How Small States Operate in the International System - The Case of the Republic of Slovenia. Wang Wen, Dean of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies, Renmin University of China (RDCY), presided over the entire event. Professors and students from Renmin University of China, Beijing Foreign Studies University, China Foreign Affairs University, Beijing International Studies University and other universities, representatives from government agencies and companies, as well as media including China Media Group, Global Finance, and Beijing Daily participated in this forum.

Ambassador Boštjan Malovrh began by introducing the concept of “small states”, referencing the Forum of Small States (FOSS) in the UN, which define small states as those with a population of fewer than 10 million. Despite their limited population and territory as well as relatively less influence in terms of economic power, these states can play a crucial role in global governance. He emphasized that due to the resource limitations, small states often opt to form alliances and to cooperate with each other. With diplomacy as their vital tool, small states manifested in the search for agreements and strategic partnerships that enhance their visibility and influence in the international system. Additionally, international law provides norms and principles to regulate relations between states, which are crucial for small states to interact effectively on the global stage.

When it comes to the introduction of Slovenia, Ambassador Boštjan Malovrh stated that Slovenia is a green country, with 60% of the territory covered by forests. Currently, more than 40.5% of Slovenia’s land area is designated as protected areas, which is significantly above the EU value of 26.4%. Slovenia is also a blue country with many rivers and access to the Mediterranean Sea, with one of the main sea ports in the northern Mediterranean Sea. Nature protection, clean water and biodiversity are very important. With a population of just 2 million, Slovenia has demonstrated unique diplomatic wisdom in a specific geographic context, surrounded by large neighbors. China and Slovenia established diplomatic relations in 1992, always maintaining very close diplomatic exchanges.

Ambassador Boštjan Malovrh said that Slovenia has always adhered to the diplomatic philosophy of promoting peace and cooperation and has actively participated in international affairs. Slovenia will continue to bring its experience to address global issues such as climate change, water and food security, contributing to the solution of the serious challenges facing humankind.

During the Q&A session, Ambassador Boštjan Malovrh engaged actively with the audience on topics such as China-Slovenia relations and cooperation, the development of sports programs, and the EU’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.