Minister Grabar-Kitarović received Msgr. Giovanni Lajolo

Both pointed out the excellent bilateral relations, which are constantly on the rise, and the close co-operation between the Republic of Croatia and the Holy See. It was also pointed out that there are no outstanding issues between the two countries and that the date of today’s visit is symbolic as it takes us back to the 9th century when the Pope John VIII recognised Prince Branimir as the lawful ruler and Croatia as an independent state.

Minister Grabar-Kitarović thanked Msgr. Lajolo for the support the Holy See has offered Croatia on its road to the Euro-Atlantic integration, informing him about Croatia’s achievements in that regard and the whole EU membership negotiations process.

Minister Grabar-Kitarović pointed out that one of Croatia’s goals is to integrate all of the Croatian citizens into the Croatian society, while preserving and protecting their identity, which means respecting their religion and stimulating the ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue.

Msgr. Lajolo emphasized the traditional friendship between the Holy See and Croatia, stating that Pope Benedict XVI is continuing the policy of John Paul II, who visited Croatia three times. He also communicated the Holy See’s support to Croatia on its way to the Euro-Atlantic integration.

Both sides expressed a wish for the further deepening of the bilateral relations between Croatia and the Holy See, especially in culture, art, and between the diplomatic academies.