Minister Grabar-Kitarović took part at session of CoE Committee of Ministers in Strasbourg

Speaking about the consolidation of the Council of Europe’s system for the protection of human rights, Minister Grabar-Kitarović said that the Council of Europe has been protecting human rights, democracy and the rule of law in Europe since its inception. She pointed out that Croatia has ratified the Convention on Human Rights and most of the Protocols, Protocol 14 amongst others, and that it is one of the first CoE members. She said that Croatia is aware that the reform of the human rights system reaches beyond Protocol 14, stressing the importance of monitoring the implementation of the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights.

Minister Grabar-Kitarović also pointed out that for Croatia, the institutionalisation of the relations with CoE is extremely important. Through monitoring the protection of human rights, democratic values and the rule of law, CoE is Europe’s authority in that field, and is in that sense an irreplaceable partner in acceding to the EU.

Minister Grabar-Kitarović expressed her satisfaction with the Romanian presidency, which had regional co-operation as its priority, and thanked Romania for recognising the importance of regional initiatives. She added that Croatia, during its SEECP presidency, will continue to promote regional co-operation in SEE as a means of stimulating co-operation between countries.

At the meeting’s margins, Minister Grabar-Kitarović held a bilateral meeting with Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. The two confirmed the good bilateral relations between the two countries. Minister Grabar-Kitarović informed Minister Støre about Croatia’s efforts in acceding to the Euro-Atlantic integration. Minister Støre expressed Norway’s support to Croatia’s NATO membership.

Minister Grabar-Kitarović also met with Slovenian Foreign Minister Dimitrij Rupel. The two reiterated the friendly relations between their countries, pointing out the need to strengthen the co-operation in bilateral relations.