Minister Grabar-Kitarović met with Slovakian Foreign Minister Kubiš

Minister Grabar-Kitarović and Minister Kubiš pointed out the very good relations between the two countries, which are with no open issues and characterised by intensive political dialogue and regular meetings between the representatives of legislative and executive authority. The two confirmed the importance of a stable, exemplary, and all-encompassing co-operation that will contribute to the strengthening of the European vision in Central and South Eastern Europe.

Minister Grabar-Kitarović informed Minister Kubiš about the course of the process of Croatia’s EU accession, thanking the Slovakian side for the continuous support it is offering Croatia on its way to a full EU membership, as well as its efforts to join the North Atlantic Alliance. Minister Kubiš confirmed the support, stating he perceived Croatia as the most promising candidate for NATO membership.

Minister Kubiš pointed out that the Slovakian Republic is willing to transfer its experiences in NATO and EU accession to Croatia, which Minister Grabar-Kitarović thanked him for and said that Slovakia’s experiences in EU negotiations are important for Croatia. The experts from the Croatians negotiating team and the Slovakian experts have already held consultations twice, and the meetings are expected to continue soon.

Talking about the co-operation in justice and minority protection, both sides expressed satisfaction with the status of their minorities (there are around 3000 Croats living in Slovakia, and 5000 Slovaks living in Croatia).

The two ministers agreed that it is necessary to improve the economic co-operation between the two countries. Although trade in 2005 was improved for 11.2%, it is still below its real possibilities. Since tourism plays an important role in Slovakia, and Croatia is the no. 1 destination for Slovaks, an interesting fact was pointed out that every 27th Slovak visited Croatia last summer.