New U.S. Ambassador Arrives in Slovenia, Eager to Learn Language and Strengthen Ties

Asel Roberts, the new U.S. ambassador to Slovenia, has arrived in the country, three months after her confirmation by the Senate. The U.S. Embassy announced her arrival on social media platform X.

Upon landing at Ljubljana's Brnik airport, Roberts expressed her enthusiasm for Slovenia and greeted attendees in Slovenian, a language she has been studying since March. She stated, "It is an honor for me to represent the USA in Slovenia. I am taking over the role of ambassador at an important time for our partnership. Slovenia is a trusted friend and a strong partner of the USA."

Roberts, chosen for the ambassadorial post by President Donald Trump in February, intends to continue her Slovenian language studies to foster direct engagement with people and explore Slovenia's culture and customs. She highlighted Slovenia's strategic location between Central Europe and the Western Balkans, emphasizing its importance as a key partner in the North Atlantic defense space.

A career diplomat of Kazakh origin with over two decades at the U.S. Department of State, Roberts also served as acting chief of protocol. During her Senate confirmation hearing, she underscored Slovenia's significance as a vital NATO ally and pledged to enhance defense, economic, and trade cooperation. She specifically noted Slovenia's strategic position, its increasing defense expenditures, participation in international missions, and its highly developed economy with skilled engineers.

Roberts, who speaks multiple languages and holds a degree from Georgetown University, succeeds Jamie Harpootlian, the ambassador during the Joe Biden administration. Her appointment was part of a broader set of nominations that faced delays in the Senate due to political disputes.