Minister Asselborn said that 2005 will be an important year for both countries, adding that he hopes that Croatia will start the accession negotiations with the EU during Luxembourg’s presidency. Asselborn raised the question of Croatia’s co-operation with the Hague Tribunal. Minister Žužul said that Croatia fully co-operates with the Tribunal and that there is only one open issue left. That this is so confirms the positive report on the co-operation with Croatia by the ICTY Head Persecutor Carla del Ponte.
Minister Asselborn also inquired about the refugee return process. Minister Žužul replied that Croatia is approaching that issue very seriously and is dedicated to creating a positive political climate that will facilitate the return of the refugees. Žužul also informed Minister Asselborn about the reconstruction of the houses and finding alternative accommodation. The problem is in the difficult economic situation in areas of return, especially the low level of job opportunities.
Minister Žužul also met with the Greek Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis and informed him about the activities regarding the forming of the Croatian delegation for the negotiations with the EU, thanking his for Greece’s support during its presidency over the EU. Minister Molyviatis replied that Greece will continue to support Croatia’s membership in the EU, as it believes that the region’s future lies in the EU. Minister Molyviatis added that all coutries of the region should join the EU, individually and according to their merits.
Croatian Foreign Minister Žužul also met with Serbian and Montenegrin Foreign Minister Vuk Drašković. The two discussed the bilateral issues between the two countries and described them as good. The Republic of Serbia and Montenegro will continue to solve all open issues through diplomatic contacts.