Minister Žužul had an intensive working afternoon at the European Parliament in Brussels...

On Thursday, 22 January 2004, Foreign Minister Žužul had an intensive working afternoon at the European Parliament in Brussels. Minister Žužul presented foreign policy priorities of the Croatian Government to the Committee for Foreign Affairs, Human Rights and Common Security and Defence Policy of the European Parliament

Minister Žužul presented foreign policy priorities of the Croatian Government to the Committee for Foreign Affairs, Human Rights and Common Security and Defence Policy of the European Parliament and exposed the situation regarding the implementation of main political criteria of the EU (cooperation with the Hague Tribunal, return of refugees, minority protection, reform of justice, freedom of media, relations with the neighbouring countries and regional cooperation). After his presentation, Minister Žužul replied to questions of representatives and Committee members.

At a separate meeting with Mr. Elmar Brok, Chairman of the above named Committee, and in the light of the expected Recommendations of the European Parliament following the application of the Republic of Croatia for EU membership, Minister Žužul informed about the programme and priorities of the new Government. He pointed out the determination of the Croatian Government to continue implementing the scheduled reforms. They also talked about the enlargement of the European Union, and Mr. Elmar Brok informed Minister Žužul with the course of discussions held by the Irish Presidency about the preparation of the continuation of the Intergovernmental Conference.

Further, Minister Žužul met Mr. Alexandros Baltas, representative of the socialist group of the European Parliament and Rapporteur for EP recommendations with the view to the Croatian application for membership in the EU. In the talks with Mr. Baltas, the implementation of main political criteria was considered in detail. Minister Žužul informed about the expectations of the Republic of Croatia as to the dynamics toward the EU. He emphasised the importance that the recommendations of the European Parliament have for further acting on request for membership of the Republic of Croatia in the European Union. Rapporteur Baltas expressed his support to the Croatian approaching to the EU and pointed out the need of undertaking further efforts in the reforms that have been initiated.

At the European Parliament, Minister Žužul met with Mr. Jan Marinus Wiersm, Holland representative at the European Parliament, Vice-Chairman of the Socialist Group and Member of Foreign Affairs Committee. They talked about the dynamics of the Croatian approaching to the EU, as well as on wider processes within the European Union, and considered the issues related to the EU enlargement and the future of the European Constitution.

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