State Secretary Bianca Matković met in Cairo with Egyptian Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs Fatma El Zahraa Etman

The collocutors described the relations between the Republic of Croatia and the Arab Republic of Egypt as friendly, pointing out the numerous potentials for furthering the cooperation, especially in economy. State Secretary Matković and Assistant Minister El Zahraa Etman also talked about the pending visit by Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to Croatia, saying it would give an important impetus to the further enhancement of the two countries’ bilateral relations. State Secretary Matković informed Assistant Minister El Zahraa Etman about the course of Croatia’s EU membership negotiations. It was pointed out that Egypt supports Croatia’s along that path and respects its achievements.

State Secretary Matković said that Croatia, thanks to its geographical position and highway network, can serve Egyptian businessmen as a link with European markets through the Port of Rijeka. In that regard, she pointed out the initiative of further promoting the joint cooperation between Croatian and Egyptian entrepreneurs. Along with the existing cooperation in oil industry, there is potential for cooperation in shipbuilding, food industry and tourism as well.

The collocutors also stressed the need for a better presentation of Croatia and Egypt’s cultural heritage through international events and festivals, which could result in an increase of tourist exchange.