Slovenia should make use of its expertise in nuclear energy, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stressed during his visit to Slovenia, offering the IAEA's support and underlining the importance of a broad debate on a possible new nuclear power unit. At the invitation of the Prime Minister, Mr Grossi took part in a consultation on the importance of nuclear energy, hosted by the Prime Minister. The purpose of the consultation was to discuss the peaceful use of nuclear energy, energy security, and the role of nuclear countries in combating climate change. The event also provided an opportunity for experts to discuss the importance of nuclear energy and to strengthen cooperation between Slovenia and the IAEA in new nuclear construction and research.

Prime Minister Golob also highlighted the advantage of Slovenia's existing successful nuclear programme, saying: "We cannot turn a blind eye to the climate crisis, we have to prepare for it," he said. "Nuclear energy is part of the solution to the climate crisis, not part of the problem," he stressed, adding that it was important for Slovenia to take a clear stance as decisions on the future use of nuclear energy would affect the whole region. On Thursday, with 65 votes in favour and seven against, the National Assembly adopted an ordinance calling for a consultative referendum on the implementation of the second nuclear unit (JEK 2) project. The referendum will take place on 24 November.