Slovenia joined the EU 20 years
ago, on May 1, along with nine other Central and Eastern
European countries, in what was the largest round of EU
enlargement to date. On Tuesday night, notable buildings and
public spaces in Slovenia were illuminated in the colours of the
European flag to commemorate Slovenia's 20th anniversary of
joining the EU, according to the Slovenian news agency STA.
Slovenia has changed for the better in the twenty years since
joining, but "thanks to your membership, Europe has also changed
for the better," European Commission President Ursula von der
Leyen said in a brief video address. "You are a key contributor
to our humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, and you have always
reminded us that our Union is still incomplete, and that all
people in the western Balkans are members of the family," she
said.
"Because of EU membership, we undoubtedly live better than we
would otherwise," President Nataša Pirc Musar noted in her
address at the 20th anniversary of Slovenia's joining the EU.
Slovenia enjoys many benefits as a member state, including a
stronger economy and European solidarity. "Our country's entry
into the EU 20 years ago was the right and best possible
decision for the well-being of Slovenian citizens," Slovenian
Prime Minister Rober Golob said in a written statement.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
