Highlighting robust GDP growth, a low unemployment rate, a skilled labour force and a tradition of innovation as Slovenia's advantages in getting ahead in digital transformation, Rogge labelled the country small enough to avoid exposure and big enough to have big ambitions.

"This is your opportunity for a jump forward. It will be a long path, it never ends. The first step is to believe that you have the ability to make the jump," he said.

To build up trust in new technological solutions brought about by the increasingly digitalised and big-data-based society, Rogge believes security must be ensured at all levels.

Microsoft Slovenija boss Barbara Domicelj said that countries and organisations that will be able to adapt quickly and efficiently to change will be the best off. "Jobs will be created in places with the best ear for technology," she added.

This year, the conference, one of the biggest tech events in Slovenia, focuses on digital transformation and artificial intelligence, which Domicelj believes "can help solve major problems in society".

"But we must not overlook the fact that AI can be abused. That is why we believe that we need strong, new legislation, ethical principles, new know-how and skills, as well as understanding and consideration about how we act. We must act with a sense for common responsibility."

This was also highlighted by Prime Minister Miro Cerar, who said that Slovenia supported new technologies, "but with consideration". "We want new technologies to have a human face ... so that technology helps improve the quality of living."