"Connecting people, making friendship, cooperation between countries, sports, culture, helping children. We have been integrated into all UN domains and the secretary general congratulated us and expressed his willingness to cooperate," Simčič said after the meeting.

The entrepreneur also underlined the importance of diplomatic ties that the Esimit Europa project has built over the years. Their cause enjoys the support of President Borut Pahor, European Parliament President Martin Schulz, Prince Albert II of Monaco, President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades and many others.

"It is a symbol of human connection. Our team brings together eleven nations, languages, cultures and they all work for the same goal - to win," Simčič says about Esimit Europa 2, which is the only racing sail boat to fly the EU flag. In addition, the boat is sponsored by Russian gas giant Gazprom, while Simčič also developed good relations with Russia's FM Sergey Lavrov.

Simčič, who saw Ban Ki Moon with Slovenian Ambassador to the UN Andrej Logar, also invited the Secretary General to the project's 20th anniversary, which will take place in Monaco at the end of August.