A two-day seminar on the modernisation of the foreign affairs service ended today in Zagreb

The seminar included lectures by the Swedish officials and working group activities, who dealt with the subject of the organisation of a modern foreign affairs service suitable for an EU candidate country, human resources management and corporate development.

Presenting the concept of the organisation of the Swedish foreign affairs service, complemented with practical examples, the Swedish officials stressed the importance of a quality and functional organisation of a foreign affairs service which, although financially limited, must rise up to the challenge of preparations for entering the EU and other integrations, help other state administration bodies and be of service to the citizens. The care for human resources was pointed out as especially important as it carries the quality of the entire foreign affairs service. The significance of corporate development was also pointed out, which must be harmonised with nation’s long-term interests.

The two ministries agreed on continuing their co-operation in 2005, as well as organising the working meetings between their officials so as to review the existing co-operation, and organising practical training for the Croatian MFA officials at the Swedish MFA.