by MK
Interview: mayor of Gorizia, Rodolfo Ziberna; Tatjana Rojc, Italian senator; school’s teacher and students
President Sergio Mattarella of Italy and President Nataša Pirc Musar of Slovenia on Thursday inaugurated the newly restored Collegio dei Nobili in Koper (Capodistria), underscoring the strength of relations between the two neighboring countries. The historic building now houses the city’s Italian elementary and secondary schools.
Mr. Mattarella described the occasion as “a moment of great friendship,” noting that cooperation between Italy and Slovenia extends across diplomacy, economics, culture and education. He praised the Italian community in Slovenia as a “cornerstone of friendship” that has helped overcome difficult periods in the past and serves as an example of cross-border cooperation in Europe.
The Italian leader also highlighted the growing economic exchange between the two countries and pointed to joint cultural initiatives such as the 2025 European Capital of Culture designation for Nova Gorica and Gorizia.
Marking the start of the new school year, Mr. Mattarella stressed the broader social importance of education, calling schools “places where Europe is strengthened and prejudices are dismantled.”
The visit reflected Italy’s effort to reinforce ties with Slovenia, with collaboration extending well beyond diplomacy to daily life, culture and education.
