“Welcome to Slovenia, welcome to Planica, welcome home! We may rightly be proud of these World Championships. In the coming days, more than 2,000 athletes will be competing here, accompanied by 100 times as many visitors, creating the fantastic atmosphere for which Planica is famous. I am confident that we will also make sure that the competitions spread the word about Slovenia around the world. We are a sporting nation and take great pride in our athletes. That is why I am delighted that the Championships are taking place in Planica," said the Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob at the opening ceremony of this year's biggest sporting event in Slovenia, the 43rd FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Planica, describing Slovenia as the green heart of Europe.

The 43rd Nordic World Championships will take place in Planica until 5 March, with more than 2,000 athletes competing for World Champion titles in ski jumping, cross-country skiing and Nordic Combined. More than half a billion people are expected to see the action in Planica through various channels. The Championships present an opportunity to improve the visibility and overall image of Slovenia as an active, green, healthy and sporty destination, and to raise the profile and reputation of the country.

Today marks one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. During the past year, Slovenia has helped Ukraine with various forms of aid worth almost EUR 30 million, ranging from humanitarian and material support to direct aid to Ukrainian refugees who have taken refuge in our country. Throughout this time, Slovenia has also been a strong supporter of Ukraine on the political stage and has clearly condemned Russia's aggression and its crimes.