Slovenian-carrier Adria Airways has indicated that by the end of 2004, it'll become the First member of Star Associate Member.

Star Associate apparently to be an alliance within an alliance.

Star Alliance is using this month's EU expansion as the opportunity to set up a mini-grouping too attract small/medium-size carriers, mainly in eastern europe.

Adria Airways has intensive cooperation with both Star member Lufthansa and Austrian.

At least 4-5 airlines has been invited, probably includes Estonian, Blue1, Croatia, and Adria.