3 DEFENCE AND SECURITY POLICY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA The Republic of Slovenia is a globally and regionally responsible country, committed to solidarity and striving for the promotion of peace, security and stability, respect for human rights and international law, prevention of conflict, and jointly addressing global security challenges. The defence system of the Republic of Slovenia will support lasting and strategic national interests which will enable the creation of a safe environment as a condition for the welfare of the state, society, and citizens. The permanent and vitally important interests of the Republic of Slovenia are to maintain the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the state, and to maintain the national identity, culture, and authenticity of the Slovenian nation within the internationally recognized borders of the Republic of Slovenia, abroad, and throughout the world. The strategic interests of the Republic of Slovenia are the recognition of and respect for the inviolability of the country's internationally recognized borders and its national territory, including the territorial waters and the airspace of the Republic of Slovenia; the functioning of the democratic parliamentary political system; respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; strengthening of the rule of law and the social state; the welfare of its people and a comprehensive development of society; the protection of life and a high level of all forms of security for its people; the protection of the rights and prosperity of Slovenian indigenous ethnic communities in neighbouring countries; peace, security and stability in the world; and the preservation of the environment and natural resources of the Republic of Slovenia. The Republic of Slovenia is an integral part of the Euro-Atlantic political, economic, security, and cultural environment. It respects and shares important values with its allies and partners – respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the strengthening of democracy and the rule of law. The Republic of Slovenia pursues its vital and strategic national interests autonomously, through intense bilateral cooperation, and by maintaining an active role in the region and in the United Nations Organization, the European Union, NATO, and other international organizations. It uses mechanisms and means in compliance with the provisions of international law. The defence system ensures the defence of the country and contributes to other national security objectives of the Republic of Slovenia, such as ensuring a high level of security and prosperity of the citizens; cooperation in deterrence and defence against the threats to security and in ensuring peace in the world; strengthening its international reputation, the political security position, and the visibility of the Republic of Slovenia in the world; and developing good relationships with its allies, partners and other countries. Strengthening the wider involvement of countries in the Euro-Atlantic environment, defined by stability, equality, prosperity and solidarity, is in the national interest of the Republic of Slovenia. Such an environment remains an important factor in a more equal position of all actors in the international community, and a guarantee of stability. 10