Györkös, who was invited to the event by the Slovenian Embassy in Washington, told the STA the purpose of his visit had been to strengthen the Slovenia-US relations.

Slovenia was presented alongside several other European countries under the sponsorship of the European Commission.

Slovenia and the US cooperate well in science, including as part of the Fulbright US Student Program. The ARRS also cooperates with the Slovenian Embassy in Washington through the exchange of academics and science promotion.

Györkös stressed the importance of the American Slovenian Education Foundation, which provides international grants, unites scholars and educators, as well as enhances education activities. According to him, the ARRS will therefore continue to support the foundation.

The embassy promotes the integration of Slovenian researchers in the US. Cooperating with the Association of Slovenes Educated Abroad, it hosts annual events where Slovenian scientists who work or study in the US can network and socialise.

The 2019 AAAS meeting, featuring more than 120 scientific sessions, lectures, and workshops, attracted some 10,000 visitors.