Slovenian Global Forum in Bled Sets New Record for Sport Diplomacy
The picturesque Alpine town of Bled, Slovenia, hosted the latest edition of the Slovenian Global Forum on June 20–21, 2026, drawing a record number of international delegates for what has become one of Europe’s premier events bridging sports, business, and diplomacy.
This year’s forum, themed around how sport opens many doors, brought together government officials, athletes, business leaders, and NGO representatives from across the globe. According to Slovenia’s official government portal, the event confirmed its status as a record-breaking edition in the forum’s history, with participants from Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe converging on the shores of Lake Bled.
Among the notable delegations was Turkmenistan, represented by Mahri Bashimova, who used the platform to extend a formal invitation to the Slovenian delegation for a follow-up forum scheduled in Ashgabat this December. Uzbekistan’s delegation was also present, underscoring the growing ties between Slovenia and Central Asian nations in the realm of sports cooperation.
Minister Kajzer, speaking at the forum, emphasized that economic diplomacy through sport is crucial for boosting the competitiveness of the Slovenian economy. “Sport has the unique ability to connect people across borders and cultures. When we leverage that power strategically, it creates lasting economic partnerships,” she noted in her keynote address.
The forum’s program featured panel discussions on topic including youth sports development, sustainable event management, and the role of sports in post-conflict reconciliation. Delegates also toured Slovenia’s Olympic training facilities and visited local sports clubs, gaining firsthand insight into the country’s approach to athlete development.
Slovenia has positioned itself as a hub for sports diplomacy in the region, leveraging its compact geography, world-class athletic infrastructure, and strong tradition in winter sports. The success of this year’s Global Forum reinforces Bled’s reputation as a neutral ground where meaningful dialogue can take place against a stunning natural backdrop.
The next edition of the Slovenian Global Forum is expected to take place later this year, with preliminary discussions already underway for expanded programming in 2027.