Minister Jandroković participated in meeting of US-Adriatic Charter foreign ministers in Sarajevo

Reviewing Croatia’s experience with NATO’s Membership Action Plan, the minister said that MAP represents a good framework for the implementation of reforms aimed at preparing the country for NATO membership

Reviewing Croatia’s experience with NATO’s Membership Action Plan, the minister said that MAP represents a good framework for the implementation of reforms aimed at preparing the country for NATO membership. Systematic and successful reforms are of key importance for the membership, as they strengthen the candidate country’s capacities to adapt to NATO’s standards and procedures, said Minister Jandroković.

Speaking about the ISAF mission in Afghanistan, the minister said Croatia had confirmed its dedication to helping maintain the stability and security in the country, which remains NATO’s priority. In that regard, he outlined Croatia’s contribution to the building of civil institutions in Afghanistan through the recently-constructed Zhar Shakh health centre in the village of Layoba, financed by the Republic of Croatia. All of the US-Adriatic Charter countries have recognized the importance of taking part in the overall security efforts, which brings them closer to NATO and makes them better prepared for its membership, said the minister.

Minister Jandroković announced Croatia’s presidency over the Charter as of January 2010 and listed as priorities the passing of political decisions, parliamentary procedures, defence and operative planning, and enhancement of public diplomacy capacities. Inviting the member countries to continue investing in the Charter’s activities, Minister Jandroković pointed out Croatia’s readiness to continue contributing to practical cooperation during its presidency. Croatia will highlight the importance of all the Charter members’ participation in NATO security activities and stimulate pooling of their individual capabilities in the realization of common goals.

In the Joint Declaration, the foreign ministers of Croatia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Macedonia supported the reforms and Euro-Atlantic integration processes in the countries of South Eastern Europe. They applauded Montenegro’s joining MAP and expressed hope that this reform programme would soon invite Bosnia and Herzegovina as well. The ministers also expressed support for the international community’s efforts and the United States’ new strategy for security and stability in Afghanistan.

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