The review by the OECD Development Assistance Committee found Slovenia had built up a sound development programme over the last 12 years, particularly in the western Balkans, and should tighten its focus in other regions to get the most impact from its aid contributions.

Slovenia provided aid worth $80m in 2015, equivalent to 0.18% of its gross national income – compared with the average of 0.32% among committee members. Its aid consisted entirely of grants.

The main recipients were Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia, who between them received two-thirds of Slovenia’s bilateral aid.

DAC chair Charlotte Petri Gornitzka said: “It is encouraging to see Slovenia increasing its development aid and showing such willingness to share its transition experience with countries in the western Balkans striving for a similar path.

“Outside the Balkans, Slovenia can enhance its impact by focusing more on a smaller number of high-value projects, delivered through partnerships in carefully selected countries and sectors.”