National Day Message by H. E. Mr. Anžej Frangeš, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Slovenia to the Republic of Bulgaria

On 25 June 1991 Slovenia has declared its independence. The Slovenian people have decided that they wish to shape their own future and live in an independent country.

The young country also had a vision of joining the European family as soon as possible. This vision materialized only 12 years later.

Slovenia and Bulgaria have excellent bilateral relations and a lot in common - from Slavic heritage and cultural ties to the partnership in the European Union and NATO. There are still many opportunities to enhance our cooperation and we are constantly progressing in this direction.

Slovenia is located in the heart of Europe and connects the central, western and southeastern parts of the Old Continent.All these various influences helped the country to shape its character.

Slovenia's geostrategic position helps the country to integrate both on the international and economic scene, and its developed transport infrastructure provides excellent conditions for businesses.

Today Slovenia has a dynamic economy, based on green energy and organic development.

Tourism is becoming increasingly important. A visit to Slovenia leaves a lasting impression on travellers, who experience it as an authentic and traditional, but also modern and innovative.

This year we celebrate the Statehood Day under different circumstances. On this occasion, the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Sofia, with the kind assistance of the Sofia Municipality, organized an exhibition of photographs entitled "I feel sLOVEnia", which will be held from June 26 to July 6, 2020 in the "Crystalgarden" in Sofia.

The exhibition presents to the Bulgarian public 28 landscapes of untouched nature of the "green heart" of Europe, which will allow you to admire mighty peaks, picturesque lakes, glistening rivers, green valleys, ancient forests, as well as medieval towns and castles.

You can't help but to fall in love with sLOVEnia, because Slovenia is the only country with the word "love" in its name.

This year has been full of challenges, which we are overcoming together. For the Statehood Day I wish all the best to the citizens of the Republic of Slovenia in Bulgaria, and to all our friends in this wonderful country - health and success.

The photo was provided by the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in the Republic of Bulgaria.