The Slovenian pavilion is the first impression that Slovenia makes on the visitors of Expo, said the acting director of the Spirit public agency Gorazd Mihelič following the official opening of the world fair in Milan. Mihelič expressed his satisfaction with the pavilion and his expectations about the positive effects of Slovenia's presentation.

For Slovenia the importance of this year's Expo world fair is even greater due to its proximity. "This is an excellent opportunity both for the Slovenian economy as well as the promotion of Slovenia as a tourist destination, and the main goal is improving the recognisability and reputation of Slovenia," noted the Spirit agency in a previous statement.

By using the slogan I feel Slovenia, Green.Active.Healthy. at the Milan fair Slovenia wishes to present itself as an innovative country committed to sustainable development in terms of food and conservation of the environment – through this, Slovenia is depicted as green, active and healthy.

The programme of the pavilion will offer important contributions from 10 Slovenian regions, while two declined the cooperation. During the exhibition presentations, Slovenia will put emphasis on its local economy, particularly tourism, and culture.

Slovenia's presentations will consist of five themed parts: salt panes, beekeeping, thermal and mineral waters, hiking and cycling as well as black carbon monitoring. The Slovenian pavilion expects to greet about a million visitors and has cost five million euros.

Dolores Subotić, MMC
translated by K. Z.