President of the Republic receives one of the most distinguished American astronauts of Slovenian descent

During the meeting, the President and the astronaut exchanged views on space exploration, the role of science in shaping and understanding the future of humanity, and the importance of scientific diplomacy.

President Pirc Musar underscored the importance of the active participation of women in science, emphasizing that women are not merely an added value but a key pillar of scientific progress and the effective integration of scientific knowledge into policymaking and society at large. In this context, she stressed the exceptional importance of promoting the achievements of women in science. The President consistently highlights that science represents a fundamental driver of development and that trust in the scientific method constitutes a cornerstone of a just and sustainable future, including due recognition of the contributions made by women in the scientific community.

On this occasion, Sunita Williams expressed her special gratitude to the President for the birthday video message she received from her during her extended mission in space, which resulted from technical difficulties with the spacecraft. She described the President’s gesture as personal and encouraging.

President Pirc Musar expressed her sincere appreciation to Ms Sunita Lyn Williams for her outstanding contribution to the advancement of science, her steadfast commitment to the education of young people, and her dedicated efforts to promote women in science, through which she has also indirectly contributed to enhancing the international standing and visibility of the Republic of Slovenia.