The Ministry of Foreign Affairs implements foreign policy and carries out duties determined by the Foreign Affairs Act and other regulations. It also contributes expert viewpoints during the planning of Slovenia's foreign policy, during the preparations and procedures for shaping this policy, and prior to the adoption of resolutions passed by the National Assembly and the government. The Ministry represents Slovenia in other countries and with international organisations, monitors international political and economic relations, and develops relations between Slovenia and other states and international organisations. The Ministry is responsible for negotiations with other countries and international organisations, and for proposing international agreements to be ratified, as well as for their evidencing and archiving. In addition, the Ministry promotes and co-ordinates international co-operation in the political, economic, educational, cultural, scientific, technical and other fields. It devotes particular attention to the protection of the interests of the Republic of Slovenia and of its citizens and legal entities abroad; it is also concerned with the welfare of Slovene minorities in neighbouring countries and of Slovenes worldwide. These activities are carried out by the Ministry itself and at the diplomatic and consular missions of the Republic of Slovenia abroad.