- Published: 28.03.2023.
State Secretary Matušić attends Adriatic Charter meeting
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Charter, an association that has helped pave the Euro-Atlantic path of its member states, as well as strengthen democracy and the rule of law.
Over the three thematic meetings, the ministers reflected on the war in Ukraine and the assistance provided to date, the security challenges and economic vulnerabilities of the Western Balkans, as well as the 20 years of the Charter and its future development, with the aim of bolstering the member states’ readiness to deal with the security challenges of today and beyond.
Croatia underscored the importance of NATO’s Open Door Policy, the unity of member states in helping Ukraine, and combating all forms of security challenges in the Western Balkans, including the increasingly prevalent hybrid threats.
Matušić reported that Croatia has accommodated more than 22 500 Ukrainian refugees to date and donated more than 160 million euros for humanitarian and military aid, and will continue with these efforts. Croatia will participate in demining Ukraine by providing its expertise and will host an international mine action conference later this year. The state secretary also underlined the readiness to assist Ukraine in war crime proceedings, reintegration of occupied areas, and the country’s EU journey. The stability and security of Southeast Europe has to remain in the Charter’s focus. Croatia will continue to cooperate bilaterally as well as within the Charter with its member states to ensure peace and stability, and to eliminate the threats and challenges aimed at destabilizing this region.