Between 1945 and 1991, Slovenia was the most active among all the Yugoslav republics
in seeking ways to promote economic cooperation between Austria and Yugoslavia. To this
end, Slovenia capitalized on its advantage above other republics, in particular, with regards
to its geographic position, historical and other links. Slovenia was compelled to strengthen
economic contacts with its more developed neighbour by the worsening economic situation
of its ethnic minority in Austria as well as its need for a more rapid economic progress and to
keep up with the developed west. The way to the west led through the Austrian market,
enterprise and capital.