On October 23, 2025, the “Austria – Slovenia: Connected for the Future” business forum happened in Vienna, uniting nearly 300 leaders from the economy, research, and diplomacy. The event, organized by SPIRIT Slovenia and partners at the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, aimed to strengthen economic ties and foster cooperation for a sustainable and innovative future, successfully linking business interests with cultural and diplomatic initiatives. Our colleague Dr. Vesna Merc, Project Manager at the CTGCT, attended the event and also participated in it.
The forum featured high-level discussions and two expert panels focusing on key areas of future cooperation. While the first panel addressed the role of hydrogen in the green transition, the second panel focused on the “Opportunities Brought by Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies in Medicine,” tackling one of the most dynamic fields of modern science.
The CTGCT, represented by Vesna, participated in this high-level medical technology panel sharing the stage with experts from Austria and Slovenia, including leaders from Cosylab, Cogvis Software, BKS Bank, Medicus AI, and the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology. The panel explored how digital solutions are already actively improving patient diagnosis, treatment, and overall quality of life.
The discussion emphasized that cross-border cooperation in research and development is crucial for accelerating the adoption of AI in health systems and strengthening public trust. The expert consensus was that AI functions best when it is transparent, regulated, and human-controlled. The panelists concluded that AI will not replace human medical professionals but will instead serve as a vital partner in co-creating progress and driving the next wave of innovation in medicine.
The CTGCT’s contribution to the panel on medical AI was part of a broader, inspiring dialogue that defined the “Connected for the Future” forum. The event featured notable speakers from diplomacy and industry, including an impressive keynote from ski jumping champion Peter Prevc, who shared his powerful perspective on idealism and perseverance. The forum was organized by SPIRIT Slovenia, along with the Austrian Chamber of Commerce and other key partners, who successfully created a great platform for bridging economic, scientific, and cultural ties. We extend our sincere gratitude to SPIRIT Slovenia for the invitation to participate in this important event and for the opportunity to share our work alongside such esteemed colleagues from both nations. Read their article about the even in this link.
Photos: STA/Nebojša Tejić