These were the words with which Romano Prodi welcomed Slovenia's joining the European family, when the clock struck midnight on the 1st May 2004 on the border between Nova Gorica and Gorizia.

On 1st of May 2004 Slovenia fulfilled its main goal, set after gaining independence from Yugoslavia. EU membership was supported by nearly 90 % of Slovenians.

Slovenia joined the EU together with nine other European countries, but was the first country, out of all the newcomers, to introduce the Euro currency. It was also the first to enter the Schengen area and chair the European Council.

However with the financial crisis, Slovenia’s image declined and was mentioned more frequently together with those member states in desperate need of financial aid. Slovenia is also the only EU newcomer whose purchasing power has fallen since entering the union.

K. J., Radio Si