Kathmandu— India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday condemned the vandalism of its embassy premises in Slovenia by what it termed “anti-India elements.” The MEA emphasized that diplomatic premises are protected under international law, specifically the Vienna Convention, and urged Slovenian authorities to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice. The condemnation follows recent high-level bilateral engagements between India and Slovenia focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic ties.

Incident and Diplomatic Response

The MEA stated it has taken up the matter with Slovenian authorities in both New Delhi and Ljubljana, seeking accountability for the perpetrators of what they described as a “reprehensible act.” The ministry also called on Slovenian law enforcement to address hateful propaganda and disinformation being spread by those involved. This incident occurred shortly after positive diplomatic interactions between the two countries.

Recent Bilateral Engagements

Last month, India’s Ambassador to Slovenia, Amit Narang, met with Slovenia's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tone Kajzer to discuss ways to advance diplomatic and economic cooperation. The Indian Embassy in Ljubljana noted on social media that the meeting included a letter of congratulations from India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to his Slovenian counterpart. Discussions focused on strengthening ties between the two nations into a mutually beneficial partnership.

Strengthening Ties and Past Cooperation

The incident follows other recent displays of cooperation between India and Slovenia, including Secretary (West) at the MEA, Sibi George, representing New Delhi at Slovenia’s National Day event in June. At that event, he reaffirmed commitment to the partnership and highlighted potential for expanded collaboration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended congratulations to Janez Jansa upon his election as Slovenia's Prime Minister in May, expressing a desire to deepen bilateral ties.

Call for Accountability

The MEA reiterated its expectation that Slovenian authorities will take firm action against those responsible for the defacement and address the spread of disinformation. The ministry underscored the importance of protecting diplomatic premises as mandated by international conventions.

Slovenian authorities have not yet publicly responded to the Indian government’s condemnation, but an investigation is expected to be launched into the incident.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.