Ljubljana - Prime Minister Robert Golob congratulated Ukraine, as the country observes Independence Day on Wednesday. In a tweet, the government cited Golob as saying that Slovenia remained a dedicated partner on Ukraine's path to recovery, wishing the country to become stronger, better and more resilient.

The Foreign Ministry also extended congratulations to Ukraine. "Sincere congratulations to Ukraine and the brave Ukrainian people on Independence Day," the ministry tweeted.

"Both countries are committed to further strengthening their friendly ties to the benefit of both nations. Slovenia stands by Ukraine during these difficult times," the tweet added.

Ukraine is observing its 31st Independence Day after breaking away from the Soviet Union. In light of the Russian invasion, President Volodymyr Zelensky said the country would fight until the end. Congratulations are pouring in from around the globe.

To mark the occasion, Ukrainian Ambassador to Slovenia Andrij Taran brought together fellow ambassadors in Ljubljana to unfurl a giant Ukrainian flag in the courtyard of Ljubljana castle, according to a press release.

"Our colleague ambassadors have come here to show their support. And I believe that with this level of international support the aggressor will be defeated, the aggressor will be stopped, and peace all over Ukraine will be restored," Taran was quoted as saying in the press release.

A video of the event, produced with technical support from the embassies of the UK and US, was shared by the Ukrainian Embassy on social media.

Ukrainian community in Slovenia also marked the Independence Day. A ceremony was held in Pogačar Square in Ljubljana and a Ukrainian evening was held in the coastal town of Ankaran as part of a local festival.

Refugees from Kharkiv, Mariupol and Irpin presented folk and modern songs, poetry, dance and traditions. There are some 100 refugees in Ankaran, most of whom are living at the state-owned Debeli Rtič reconvalescence centre.