While comprehensive efforts to enhance the country’s reputation on the European floor are being made, we would like to extend the feeling and experience of this Presidency to Slovenia’s residents outside the state administration. One of the main goals in the preparations for the Presidency was the creation of the ‘basket of towns’ concept with the ultimate goal of the long-term general promotion of Slovenia from economic, tourism, scientific and other aspects.

The basket of towns was established by the Task Force on Coordination of Preparation and Implementation of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in cooperation with ministries and other stakeholders (Slovenian Convention Bureau, Protocol of the Republic of Slovenia, Government Office for Communication) and local communities. They welcomed the warm response of local communities, who positively embraced the invitation and recognised that unity and cooperation are the only way to benefit Slovenia.

The purpose of the Basket of Towns Manual is to allow the organisation of events held during the Presidency at the sub-ministerial level at different locations throughout Slovenia. The design distinguishes between ‘leading destinations’ and ‘accompanying destinations’, accommodation and conference facilities in towns being a key criterion for defining the leading destinations. Destinations that will provide side programmes consisting of natural and cultural heritage/sights, a cultural programme, promotion programme and economic and scientific programmes have been identified and formulated with the help of local communities.

The manual, which will be further supplemented until the Presidency if necessary, has been prepared in particular to assist everyone who will participate in the organisation of events within the Slovenian Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Its electronic form and general concept allow for its general use after the Presidency as well. This also contributes to the achievement of one of the most important goals of our Presidency – green orientation and a sustainable footprint.