"It is in our national interest to contribute by the best of our abilities so that the EU lives on and....that Slovenia remains and strengthens its position" in the group of most successful EU countries.

He believes Slovenia should strive for this at "almost any price". Pahor, who is the chief commander of Slovenia's armed forces, believes that disintegration of the EU would be the worst option for Slovenia. This could also lead to a security conflict, he said.

Although Slovenia is considered a safe country, Pahor warned against complacency. "We need a professional army with appropriate equipment, training and motivation to fulfil great and demanding tasks," said the president, praising the armed forces for work well done.