Although Baden-Württemberg is by far the most active state in doing business with Slovenia - trade topped EUR 2.3bn in 2013 - there is still a lot of potential for strengthening the ties, the officials said.

Schmid praised Slovenia's development so far, its successful switching to the euro currency and its qualified labour force.

He said cooperation could be enhanced if the country and Baden-Württemberg found similar areas they are active in, if Slovenia promoted its competitive edges more and if contacts with the government of Baden-Württemberg on all levels were more frequent.

Yesterday's meeting was the first such meeting in the last decade.

Počivalšek meanwhile pointed out that Slovenia would support Germany's efforts regarding the implementation of the Industry 4.0 platform to encourage growth of the Slovenian metal-processing industry.

Slovenia believes trade with Baden-Württemberg could be boosted in this area.

The minister also expressed interest in cooperation with companies from the German state in the process of privatisation of Slovenian companies, arguing that the country had "very positive" experience with German investors.

Počivalšek was in Hanover for the Hannover Messe industrial fair, where 15 Slovenian companies are being represented between 13 and 17 April.

The next major step in the strengthening of relations with Baden-Württemberg will be President Borut Pahor's visit to Stuttgart on 16 June.