Minister Gordan Jandroković met with Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ivailo Kalfin

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the development of bilateral relations, which were described as very good, friendly and with no outstanding issues. Minister Jandroković thanked for the support Bulgaria is offering Croatia on its path towards the EU and NATO, as well as for its readiness to share its own experience in said process.

Since long-term security and stability of Europe’s southeast are the principal goals of Croatia’s regional policy, Minister Jandroković pointed out that Croatia appreciates Bulgaria’s successful and active approach in contemplating the new regional structure, in the sense of the activities of the Regional Co-operation Council and creating a recognisable regional ownership of the SEE countries.

Minister Jandroković and Deputy Prime Minister Kalfin agreed that there is still room for improvement in economic relations, with Minister Jandroković pointing out Croatia’s willingness to share its experience in building and modernising the road, railway and energy infrastructure. In 2007, the overall trade between Croatia and Bulgaria totalled $235 million, of which $70 million is claimed by the Croatian export, marking an increase of 48% in relation to the same period in 2006. In spite of that, the Croatian side is still showing a significant deficit, which clearly points to the necessity of finding suitable ways to balance out the trade to both countries’ benefit, said Minister Jandroković.