In the penultimate issue of the Slovenian Weekly Newsletter, which is already imbued with a festive spirit, we report on several noteworthy events. Among them is the attendance of Prime Minister Robert Golob at the reopening ceremony of the renovated Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris on Saturday, at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. During the event, Prime Minister Golob met US President-elect Donald Trump for the first time. The Prime Minister's presence at the ceremony highlighted efforts to deepen political ties between Slovenia and France, two countries bound by a strategic partnership.

We also highlight Slovenia's receipt of a significant portion of the European Union Solidarity Fund grant, allocated for rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts following the devastating floods that hit the country in August 2023.

December is a time of many wonders in Slovenia, where centuries-old traditions add magic to the festive season. Among the most cherished customs are handmade ornaments, which infuse homes with natural beauty, warmth, and nostalgia. Crafted from materials such as straw, wood, paper, and even dried fruit, these ornaments reflect Slovenian heritage, creativity, and a deep connection with nature—a theme we also explore in this issue.