The research program is important for Slovenia in the folowing ways. It provides the connection with the international research in an area that is of broad interest for science and technology, is a good basis for the training of young experts, provides new knowledge in the field of applications in laser technology, optoelectronics, and use of lasers in medicine, which can be exploited by slovenian economy, and enables Slovenia to collaborate in European and other international research prgrams. It must be stressed that a characteristic of this research is a close connection of basic science and applications, which enables fast transfer of researchers from pure science to industry. For Slovenia the field is especially interesting as it alows to get relevant results with relatively modest resources and equipment. The strong ties of the scientists working on the program with the international research community assures the transfer of the newest knowledge to university teaching and technology. For the relatively well developed slovenian optoelectronic industry the program is imporatant because it provides training for young professionals and new knowledge. This is essential for retaining competitivness in the world economy. The work of the researchers in the group has specifically contributed to the development of lasers and their use for the needs of the company Fotona d.d., and to the founding of the successful company Balder. The research of the polymer surfaces and liquid crystal systems will add to the technological advances of liquid crystal optical switches produced by Balder. The research of laser systems and the use of lasers in medicine give support to the development in Fotona and could also be directly transfered into medical practice.