15th anniversary of Croatia's joining the United Nations
Over the past 15 years Croatia has transformed from a recipient of UN assistance into a provider of assistance, actively participating in the implementation of political stability in the region, Croatian President Stjepan Mesic and Croatian Prime Minister Ivo Sanader, said on May 22, addressing a reception in the Office of the President on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of Croatia's joining the United Nations. The world sees Croatia as a cooperation partner, the Croatian president said in his address to members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the Croatian government and parliament and other dignitaries. Mesic underlined that Croatia today was negotiating with the European Union about joining the bloc, expressing his conviction that the entry talks would be completed by the end of next year. "Croatia doesn't want to and will not lag behind. Croatia will not separate itself. Croatia is and will remain a full member of the international community. Croatia is a country that will justify its place in the UN and hopefully soon in the UN Security Council (as a nonpermanent member) through constructive activities," Mesic said. PM Sanader said Croatia wanted to be part of a solution that the UN will provide when it came to global challenges. "However, we will not forget our role in this part of Europe where there are still challenges for both the UN and the EU, as well as for the neighboring countries in Southeast Europe," Sanader said. Croatian Parliament deputy speaker Luka Bebic said that Croatia had had five peace operations on its territory and that the country was now participating in 11 peace operations around the world. (end)
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