President Pirc Musar and Slovenian business leaders visiting Qatar to foster new commercial opportunities

Qatar's economy is one of the strongest in the region, and it continues to strengthen its global position successfully. This follows the vision of the Emir of Qatar, as set out in the Qatar National Vision 2030 plan, which aims to establish a diverse, competitive, knowledge-based and innovative economy.

During this official visit, President Pirc Musar will seek to strengthen the partnership between the two countries. The Economic Forum provides an excellent opportunity to explore shared interests, identify new areas of potential cooperation and establish long-lasting partnerships. Both countries recognise the considerable, yet still untapped potential for further economic integration. In 2024, bilateral trade amounted to a mere EUR 30 million, and there have been no recorded Qatari investments in Slovenia to date.

Slovenia is keen to establish a direct flight connection with Qatar, operated by Qatar Airways. Such a route would significantly boost tourism, facilitate business travel, and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries. Slovenia is also seeking a reliable strategic partner to transform Maribor's state-owned airport into a modern regional hub for passenger and cargo traffic, logistics, maintenance, and business aviation, making it a genuine gateway to Central and Eastern Europe.

There is also scope for cooperation in science. "Slovenia is looking for a strategic partner to establish a joint investment fund for biotechnology and the life sciences. This fund would support innovative projects and high-potential companies with significant commercial and societal impact. While the initial focus would be on biotechnology, the fund could later expand to include health tech, green technologies and advanced materials, ensuring diversification and long-term growth. Slovenia is confident that this project would be successful, given its highly qualified, educated, and competitive experts," stressed President Pirc Musar.

In conclusion of her address to the business leaders, she added: "I hope that this forum will generate concrete ideas for collaboration. Our knowledge-based, innovative and export-oriented economies are natural partners. Both countries recognise that diversification, innovation, and sustainable development are the cornerstones of long-term prosperity. I invite you to find ways to translate these shared values and goals into tangible actions and results."