Presidents of the neighbouring countries of Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, and President of the Federal Republic of Germany confirm attendance at the central ceremony marking the Statehood Day and the 25th anniversary of independence of the Republic of Slovenia

President of the Republic of Croatia Kolinda Grabar - Kitaroviĉ, President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella, President of Hungary János Áder, President of the Republic of Austria Heinz Fischer, and President of the Federal Republic of Germany Joachim Gauck confirmed their attendance at the central ceremony marking the Statehood Day and the 25th anniversary of independence of the Republic of Slovenia, which will be held on 24th June 2016 in Ljubljana.

In addition to the Presidents of the neighbouring states, President Borut Pahor also invited to the celebration of the 25th anniversary of independence of the Republic of Slovenia President of the Federal Republic of Germany, which played an important role during the Slovenian independence, supported Slovenia in gaining international recognition, and advocated for the enrolment of the Republic of Slovenia into international organisations. The Republic of Slovenia and the Federal Republic of Germany also signed a declaration on extended cooperation.

The central ceremony marking the Statehood Day and the 25th anniversary of independence of the Republic of Slovenia will take place on 24th June 2016 in Ljubljana. Before the central state ceremony, President of the Republic of Slovenia will welcome foreign Presidents in the Presidential Palace.

The attendance of Presidents from the neighbouring states presents the basic principles of Slovenia’s foreign policy, which is based on good and friendly relations with the neighbouring states and the international community.

By inviting the Presidents of the neighbouring states, President Pahor emphasizes the meaning of friendly relations with the neighbouring countries with which we share similar historical and cultural roots. Slovenia conducts most of its import and export with these states and they also make the most foreign investments in the country.

The ceremony will celebrate the 25th anniversary of our country’s existence and commemorate the landmark events which allowed the first democratic elections and the proclamation of the sovereignty of the Republic of Slovenia. The ceremony thus offers an opportunity for an honest reflection on the Slovenian history and a confident consideration of the country’s next 25 years.