On Wednesday, together with the U.S. Embassy in Slovenia, partners, friends, and the wider Slovenian-American community, we celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Freedom 250 evening was a meaningful reminder that the strongest partnerships are built not only between institutions, but above all between people.

The gathering was addressed by the newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Slovenia, Her Excellency Asel K. Roberts, and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Janez Janša. In his remarks, the Prime Minister emphasized that Slovenians have long admired the United States as a model of democracy—especially during the time when they did not yet have a country of their own. Today, 35 years after realizing that dream, the United States remains an important ally and friend of Slovenia.

Ambassador Roberts addressed the audience in Slovenian and spoke warmly about the connections she has already developed with Slovenia. She highlighted the many ties that unite our two countries—from business and science to the remarkable Slovenians and Americans of Slovenian descent who help strengthen these bonds.

The evening concluded in a relaxed atmosphere with a joint viewing of a FIFA World Cup match, hosted this year by the United States.

The celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States once again confirmed an important truth: in an unpredictable and increasingly complex world, cooperation rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and trust is more important than ever.