Also featured among more than 80 participants were business representatives from Germany, Slovakia and as far as China.

The Slovenian entrepreneurs at the conference, organised by the government Office for Slovenians Abroad together with local chambers and agencies, are mostly from the NE region of Pomurje.

"New acquaintances, business connections and concrete projects will contribute to stronger national communities and a stronger economy," Minister for Slovenians Abroad Gorazd Žmavc said in his address, arguing "the future of Europe lies in the connecting of regions".

Economy Ministry State Secretary Aleš Cantarutti presented some of the ongoing activities and plans, explaining that there was an agreement in principle that the focus in supporting companies trying to go global was on those looking to make a breakthrough in the US, Turkey and Japan.

The neighbouring markets remain Slovenia's traditional markets, while there is a number of other markets with strong potential, ranging from China to India, Cantarutti added.

As part of the event, domestic and foreign economic institutions will present opportunities for cooperation, which will also be raised by Development, Strategic Projects and Cohesion Minister Alenka Smerkolj in a planned address.