Croatian Foreign Minister Miomir Žužul had today, 15 April 2004, at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris, a working meeting with the French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier
Today’s meeting between ministers Žužul and Barnier in Paris confirmed the friendly and partnership relations that exist between Croatia and France. As a former European Commissioner, and now the French Foreign Minister, Barnier said that he recognised Croatia’s efforts and therefore fully supports Croatia’s membership in the EU. According to Barnier, France appreciates the results and efforts of the Croatian government in meeting the criteria, and encourages it to continue along the same path, which is a guarantee of success and entering the EU. Frances recognises in the Croatian government’s policy a wider regional and European interest. Minister Barnier told Minister Žužul that Croatia can count on France’s assistance and support as regards the European Commission’s Opinion and the European Council’s Decision regarding Croatia’s candidate status, to be reached in June. The meeting confirmed the readiness to develop partnership relations between Croatia and France in all areas – economy, fighting international terrorism, and especially in international community’s efforts in stabilising the situation in Southeast Europe, an area which, according to both ministers’ opinion, calls for the opening of a European perspective.
Minister Žužul invited his colleague Barnier to pay an official visit to Croatia, which the French minister accepted. A visit by a group of French economists, members of the Employers’ Association, due in July 2004, was also announced. The French economists will bring concrete offers and projects for improving mutual economic relations.
After the meeting at the French MFA, Minister Žužul and his associates had talks at the Rothschild bank of Paris, after which they were invited to a working lunch held in Minister Žužul’s honour by the Senator and President of the Senate Group of French-Croatian Friendship, Alain Gerard, at the French Senate. Also present at the working lunch were eminent persons from France’s political and cultural life.
Later today, minister Žužul will hold a lecture at the French Institute for International Relations on the subject “Croatia’s integration into the EU and its influence on neighbouring countries”. The Croatian delegation, headed by Minister Žužul, is returning to Zagreb tonight, after a one-day working visit to France.
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