"It will be my second time at Eurovision, while for most of the competitors it will be their first time. I think it is very positive that I have the experience, and have some knowledge of what to expect, how to arrange things ... I consider it an important advantage," Omar said before leaving for Kiev. But his statement is careful: "The Eurovision results are very unpredictable, and I cannot promise I will enter the finals."

Omar said he was not nervous before leaving. He tries to stay calm, focused, and to prepare well for his performance.

Omar now knows what is most important for faultless performance: "The last time when I sang at Eurovision I was not rested, I was not focused, and therefore it was not my best performance, although the Slovenian audience was rather satisfied with it. At my age, 35, I feel larger responsibility, and am more aware it is an honour."

Nice memories of Kiev
Omar knows Kiev, as 12 years ago when he participated at Eurovision for the first time the spectacle was held in the same city. At that time he sang the song Stop. There are several reasons he is looking forward to returning to Kiev: "It made good impression, and I have good memories. I liked the food very much, all the people in general are beautiful, and especially I got the impression that the Ukrainians are nice, helpful, kind and hospitable."

Omar is leaving for Kiev on April 30, and already on May 1 he will test the Eurovision stage for the first time, at the first rehearsal before the semi-finals scheduled for May 9. The second part of the semi-finals is scheduled for May 11, and the great Eurovision finals will be held on May 13.

D. S., K. K.
Translated by G. K.