The main ceremony to mark the 25th anniversary since Slovenia declared its independence from Yugoslavia will be held in Ljubljana on 24 June, the eve of National Day. Before the ceremony, Pahor will receive his counterparts at the presidential palace.

The heads of state of the four countries neighbouring Slovenia as well as Germany have confirmed their attendance at the ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of Slovenia's independence on 24 June, the president's office has said.

President Borut Pahor has invited to the ceremony Croatia's President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, Italy's Sergio Mattarella, Austria's Heinz Fischer and Hungary's Janos Ader as his counterparts from the neighbouring countries, as well as Germany's Joachim Gauck. Gauck was invited because Germany played an important role at the time by supporting Slovenia in its efforts for international recognition and advocating the country's accession to international organisations.

By inviting the presidents of the neighbouring countries Pahor wanted to express the importance attributed to the friendly relationship with the countries bordering Slovenia and the shared historical and cultural background. The countries are also Slovenia's major trade and investment partners.

"The ceremony is in celebration of the 25th anniversary of our countries and in memory of momentous events that paved the way for the first democratic election and the declaration of Slovenia's sovereignty. As such the ceremony is an opportunity for a candid rethink of the path taken and a confident reflection on the next 25 years of our country," the release reads.