Farrell's embarrassing Slovakia-Slovenia mix-up at Canberra embassy opening
At Slovakia's new Canberra embassy, Trade Minister Farrell misnamed the country. He also posted a video with Slovenian music.
Trade Minister Don Farrell mixed up Slovakia with Slovenia at the embassy opening in Canberra this week. The minister called Slovakia 'the Slavic Republic' in his speech.
Farrell also posted a video on Instagram set to Slovenian folk music. The video was taken down and reposted with different music.
Farrell spoke alongside visiting Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar. They talked about Slovakia's support for Australia's new trade deal with the EU.
Slovakia cut its diplomatic presence to a consulate in late 2022. The new embassy is now its strongest presence in Australia.
- March
- Trade agreement date
- Juraj Blanar
- Slovak Foreign Minister
- Wednesday (embassy opening)
- Diplomatic opening date
- late 2022
- Consulate downgrade year
Why it mattersWhen a minister makes public mistakes about a trading partner's identity, it is embarrassing. This is especially bad during a formal diplomatic event.
AustraliaAustralia's Trade Minister represents the country in negotiations with EU partners; the gaffe occurred during ceremonies for the newly reopened Slovak embassy.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
