As of 3 October 2004 begins the implementation of the Ecological and Fisheries Protection Zone of the Republic of Croatia

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to emphasise that, in accordance with the Croatian Parliament’s decision of 3 June 2004, the legal regime of the Ecological and Fisheries Protection Zone of the Republic of Croatia will not apply to ships flying the European Union member state’s flag until the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between Croatia and the European Community is concluded. Croatia is actively preparing for the start of the negotiations on the Fisheries Partnership Agreement with the European Union and is taking appropriate measures to enhance and protect the interests of the Croatian fishermen. For the implementation of the Zone the activities of the Croatian Government’s Co-ordination to synchronise the monitoring and protection of the internal waters, territorial sea and the Ecological and Fisheries Protection Zone of the Republic of Croatia are of utmost importance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to emphasise the fact that the start of the implementation of the Ecological and Fisheries Protection Zone of the Republic of Croatia will in no way affect the freedom of navigation of the third states, in accordance with the UN Law of the Sea Convention and the customary international law.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to reiterate full dedication of the Republic of Croatia to the strengthening of good neighbourly relations, as well as the continuation of co-operation and the start of dialogue with the European Commission and all interested European Union member states for the purposes if reinforcing joint partnership activities aimed at protection of living resources and marine environment in the Adriatic.