The International Center for Promotion of Enterprises (ICPE) has facilitated a high‑level visit by a delegation from CABI to the Republic of Slovenia, aimed at advancing scientific collaboration and exploring the potential for Slovenia to join CABI as a Member Country.
The programme opened with a joint meeting hosted at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food, attended alongside representatives from the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and senior officials from the Administration for Food Safety, Veterinary Sector and Plant Protection.
During the session, CABI presented its mandate, governance structure and global programme portfolio, setting the foundations for discussions on how Slovenia’s strategic priorities align with CABI’s mission. The conversations included initial reflections on the institutional considerations related to possible Slovenian membership.
Dr Stefan Toepfer (Research Scientist) and Phyllis Engefu Ombonyo (Chief Officer, Member Countries & Partnerships) visit the laboratory of the National Institute of Biology in Slovenia.
The delegation visited the National Institute of Biology (NIB), where they were welcomed by Director Dr Anže Županič. Discussions centred on scientific and technical collaboration, particularly in advanced pathogen diagnostics and shared research priorities. The delegation also toured NIB’s laboratory facilities and engaged directly with researchers to better understand Slovenia’s scientific capabilities.
The visit, held on 27 February 2026, also included exchanges with the Agricultural Institute of Slovenia and with JAFRAL, whose innovations in bacteriophage technology were highlighted for their potential to contribute to global efforts to address antimicrobial resistance across human and agricultural systems.
CABI’s Phyllis Engefu Ombonyo (Chief Officer, Member Countries & Partnerships) expressed appreciation for the that ongoing cooperation with Slovenian partners and gratitude for the warm hospitality received throughout the visit, with special thanks extended to ICPE for their support and coordination.
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Main image: Phyllis Engefu Ombonyo (R) (Chief Officer, Member Countries & Partnerships) shakes hands with Danica Dobrovc‑Hribar (European Affairs and International Cooperation Service) during a meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food of the Republic of Slovenia.