09/02/2001 (Agence Europe) - The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Slovenia, Dimitrij Rupel, during a visit to Paris where he notably met his French counterpart Hubert Védrine, reiterated his countries aim to become a member of the EU in 2003 and to join NATO as of next year. "Slovenia feels that it will be ready to join NATO in 2002, and considers itself ready to join the EU in 2003", said Mr Rupel. Slovenia is not asking for much of a transition period or exemptions, even in the...