If Hungary decides to close its border crossings, Slovenia will be given due notice, Györkös Žnidar said. She added that Slovenia will always try to follow EU rules; however, it will be difficult to cope with a sudden influx of refugees.

“A sudden influx of up to 10,000 migrants per day would put Slovenia in a very difficult position, and this is what Hungary already experienced. If Austria or Germany decide to restrict their refugee policies, Slovenia would find itself in a dire situation,” the minster was quoted as saying.

As of Tuesday, Slovenia and Hungary will exchange information on refugees on a daily basis. Joint police patrols and joint investigation teams will be beefed up in a bid to tackle refugee smuggling.

Both ministers agree that Hungary’s erection of a razor wire fence along its border with Slovenia was a one-off event that will have no impact on the cooperation between the countries.

President Pahor expects another wave of refugees
Slovenian President Borut Pahor said that this week will be challenging, as the second wave of refugees could present a bigger challenge for Slovenia than the first wave. “At some point, all countries will probably have to step up border controls. The crisis will require a common solution,” Pahor said.

Pahor said he believes that Slovenia is ready for another wave of refugees. However, he added that there will be situations in which certain individuals – police officers and other people – will have to act in the moment.

T. H., A. Č.; translated by D. V.