State Secretary Metelko-Zgombić attends opening of 22nd seminar on EU integration

State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić attended the opening of the 22nd joint seminar on European integration processes for diplomats from Central, Eastern and Southeast Europe

State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić attended the opening of the 22^nd joint seminar on European integration processes for diplomats from Central, Eastern and Southeast Europe, at which she presented Croatia’s experiences during the Council of the EU presidency.

In her keynote address, Metelko-Zgombić said that the Croatian presidency had taken place amidst unprecedented circumstances due to the coronavirus pandemic, where Croatia had to adapt by March 2020 and coordinate a joint response to help the member states fight the crisis. On the Commission’s proposal, the Croatian presidency ensured two aid packages within 20 days. Croatia made the EU’s continued functioning possible in a virtual format, holding the first “digital presidency”. It was also necessary to shift the priorities towards ensuring the safety of EU citizens and enabling a safe repatriation of 650,000 persons.

In addition, Metelko-Zgombić underlined that one of the biggest successes of the Croatian presidency was the opening of accession talks with Albania and North Macedonia. The Zagreb Summit, held in a virtual format, further contributed to the enlargement process. Croatia also made it possible that discussions be held on the Multiannual Financial Framework and the Recovery Plan, and ensured an orderly Brexit. The Croatian presidency was described as very successful as it quickly adapted to the new circumstances and enabled the normal functioning of the Council.

The seminar is co-organized by the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the Hanns Seidel Foundation.

 

Press releases