Reception Hall, Malacañan Palace
February 26, 2025

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. cordially welcomed Her Excellency Dr. Smiljana Knez, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia, as she presented her letter of credence in a formal ceremony at the Reception Hall in Malacañan Palace.

In her brief remarks, the Slovenian Ambassador pledged to do her utmost to deepen cooperation between the two countries in various areas and strengthen people-to-people ties and friendship.

“I will work tirelessly and cooperate closely with your representatives of your distinguished government, business community, as well as cultural and scientific community to our common benefit,” she added.

She also assured the President of Slovenia’s strong position as an advocate of the rules-based international order, stating, “I’m honored to serve in a country with which we share these fundamental values.”

In his remarks, President Marcos Jr. expressed his gratitude to Slovenia, especially to Ambassador Knex, for being the Philippines’ first Slovenian Resident Ambassador.

Previously, the Slovenian envoy served as Foreign Policy Advisor of the President of the Republic of Slovenia from 2019 to 2022. She also held diplomatic posts as Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to Croatia from 2016 to 2019 and the Czech Republic from 2011 to 2015.

Just this month, February 5, the Philippines and Slovenia held their first bilateral consultations since the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries on May 26, 1993. Slovenia is home to 462 Filipinos, mostly office-based workers, professionals, service workers and technicians.

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