India-Slovenia Joint Issue

India–Slovenia: A Journey of Friendship and Cultural Exchange

India and Slovenia share a warm and steadily expanding relationship, rooted in mutual respect, cooperation, and shared global outlook. Since Slovenia—formerly part of Yugoslavia—attained independence in 1991, the two nations have continuously strengthened their diplomatic and cultural ties. India formally recognized Slovenia on 11 May 1992, and soon after supported Slovenia’s admission to the United Nations on 23 May 1992. India also extended support for Slovenia’s guest membership in the Non-Aligned Movement, further solidifying early bonds of partnership.

Expanding Bilateral Cooperation

Over the years, India and Slovenia have broadened their collaboration across multiple areas, including:

• Trade and Commerce
• Science and Technology
• Education and Cultural Exchange

Both nations have signed several agreements aimed at deepening cooperation in these identified sectors. Bilateral trade, in particular, has registered steady growth, reflecting increasing economic engagement.

A notable milestone was the signing of the Programme of Cooperation in Culture, Arts, Education, Science, Sports and Mass Media (2010–2014) in 2013. This programme fostered meaningful exchanges and mutual understanding between the people of the two countries.

A Joint Celebration Through Art

In the spirit of cultural collaboration, India Post and Slovenia Post jointly released a set of stamps inspired by the creativity of children from both nations. These stamps are based on prize-winning entries from national painting competitions organized separately in India and Slovenia.

India’s ‘Design a Stamp’ Contest

India Post held a nationwide contest titled “A Day with My Grandparents”, which saw enthusiastic participation from thousands of children.
The winning artworks were selected for philatelic elements as follows:

• Postage Stamp Design: Painting by Master Roshan V. Anvekar
• First Day Cover: Painting by Miss Anamika Ann Maria
• Information Brochure: Artwork by Master Theerdha Gopakumar K.

These delightful creations capture love, warmth, and intergenerational bonding through a child’s perspective.

Slovenia’s Children’s Art Competition

Similarly, Slovenia Post selected its design from a children’s painting competition held during the Shankar’s International Children’s Competition.

• The winning artwork was created by Miss Sara Živkovič, and forms the basis of Slovenia’s stamp.

Philatelic Importance of the Commemorative Stamp

The miniature sheet consists of two commemorative stamps, each representing artwork from one of the participating countries. For stamp collectors, this commemorative stamp issue is significant because:

• It represents a joint international postal issue.
• It celebrates cultural diplomacy through philately.
• It appeals to thematic collectors interested in family themes, children’s art, and joint issues.

The India–Slovenia Joint Issue commemorative stamp stands as a lasting symbol of friendship, cooperation, and shared values between the two nations, making it an important addition to any serious philatelic collection.