Slovenian President: Kenya visit a turning point in global ties
Musar said she was honoured to be invited to Kenya as her first stop in Africa since becoming president, and expressed deep admiration for Kenya’s leadership on global issues.
Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar has described her first state visit to Kenya as a chance to build stronger ties in peace, innovation, and climate action, calling the trip a personal and diplomatic milestone.
Speaking during bilateral talks in Nairobi, Musar said she was honoured to be invited to Kenya as her first stop in Africa since becoming president, and expressed deep admiration for Kenya’s leadership on global issues.
"I was pleasantly surprised and honoured to receive the invitation. I’m really looking forward to celebrating this important day with your people," she said, ahead of Madaraka Day.
She said Slovenia and Kenya both believe in multilateralism, international law, and open dialogue as a way to solve conflict and global crises.
She mentioned shared concern over wars in Europe and the Middle East, and praised Kenya’s stand on humanitarian issues.
"We both believe in the United Nations, international law, and humanitarian law. That is something very close to my heart, and I know it’s close to your president’s heart as well," she said.
The Slovenian leader also highlighted Kenya’s efforts to address climate change, praising its tree planting programme and environmental commitment.
"Your project to plant 15 billion trees—I can only applaud that. You’re not doing it just for Kenya. You’re doing it for the whole planet," she said.
She also said both countries are already working together through a space programme using a Slovenian satellite that monitors rivers and predicts floods.
She revealed that the same satellite is also used to observe the Ganges River in India.
"We are a space nation, and our small satellite already supports projects with Kenya. It can provide important data for managing rivers and disasters," she said.
She noted that Kenya and Slovenia share strengths in artificial intelligence, water supply, and farming, and promised more cooperation in these areas through Slovenian companies and experts.
"Slovenia has a strong background in AI. Some say we have the most AI experts per capita. We also have our own small Silicon Valley," she said.
She added: "Food security is becoming more important in every country. We share an interest in agriculture and innovation."
Musar also praised Kenya’s innovation culture, describing both Slovenians and Kenyans as "innovative people," and called for more partnerships based on shared values.
She thanked President William Ruto for the warm welcome and said the two countries can grow a strong friendship through diplomacy, trade, and technology.
"Thank you for the hospitality. I feel honoured to be here. I really look forward to the next two and a half days in Kenya," she said.
