Slovenian business champions at the Olympics

Moderated by Matej Rogelj from the Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the forum provided a valuable networking platform for Slovenian companies and their French counterparts.

In her opening remarks, Katja Koren Miklavec, Vice President of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia - Association of Sports Federations and 1994 Olympics' medalist, highlighted the significance of this large-scale Slovenian House with its diverse range of content, from tourism events to business conferences. "Through round tables, we addressed crucial topics for both the OKC and the IOC, including gender equality, sustainability in sport, and second careers for athletes," she noted. 

She emphasized the strong connection between sport and business, stating, "The Olympic Games have evolved beyond just sports, yet Olympic values remain paramount today. Excellence, respect, and friendship are the pillars that drive our efforts."

Jernej Salecl, Director of the Directorate for Industry, Entrepreneurship, and Internationalization at the Ministry of Economy, Tourism, and Sport, echoed these sentiments in his opening address. He stressed that champions are forged through hard work, both in sports and business, and highlighted the Olympic Games as a prime opportunity to strengthen business relations.

Marjana Majerič, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia, underscored Slovenia's innovative strength in the international business arena. She provided insights into the Chamber's operations and its role in fostering international partnerships.

Bernard Quinet, a representative from the Paris Ile-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted that the greater Paris area accounts for 30% of France's GDP. He outlined key areas of potential interest for Slovenian companies and offered practical advice for further networking.

Slovenia, the third most industrialized country in the EU, is deeply committed to sustainable development. Its economy is the 11th most complex globally, with 80% of its GDP derived from exports. Slovenia and France share a strong partnership in the aerospace industry, recently bolstered by Renault's investment in the Revoz plant, one of Renault's most efficient factories. Additionally, Ljubljana hosts the first international research centre for artificial intelligence under UNESCO's auspices.