ANDREJ BERGINC,
Sir, - The article on on Slovenia in your edition of October 2nd described our country as a Balkan state. I would like to remind you that geographically Slovenia belongs only partly to the Balkans and could be better described as an Alpine state (as very well stated in the article).
The country's 73-year attachment to the peninsula ended when it became independent from Yugoslavia in 1991. Culturally Slovenia belongs to Central Europe.
Slovenians have, of course, nothing against the Balkans, the same as Irishmen have nothing against British people. However, we feel uncomfortable to hear we are part of the Balkans, the same as Irishmen feel if their country is described as part of the British Isles. - Yours, etc.,
ANDREJ BERGINC,
Glenomena Residences,
UCD,
Belfield
Dublin 4.