Fuele, who is visiting Zagreb to discuss the completion of Croatia's preparations for the EU entry, met with President Ivo Josipovic on Monday morning.

I think Croatia is on the right track. I am quite convinced of Croatia's commitment to dedicate efforts to the remaining issues that were emphasised in the last Comprehensive Monitoring Report, Fuele said, speaking briefly to the press after meeting with President Josipovic. He added that he was confident that EU member countries would conclude the ratification process by 1 July.

He said that his meeting with the President went very well and that talks focussed on two matters. The first was to ensure that Croatia's success story continues until 1 July next year and then after that. This is something that is good for Croatian citizens and for citizens in the region, said Fuele.

The other matter is Croatia's role in the region. Croatia will become a member of the EU next year and in that context it will be given an additional and special role, he said.

That will be ...joint efforts to help other countries in the region, country candidates for membership and those countries aspiring to become members. Countries in the region can benefit by using Croatia's example in this regard, this Czech politician and diplomat added.

I am looking forward to bidding Croatia welcome to the European Union on 1 July, he added.

President Josipovic told reporters that he had spoken to Mr. Fuele about Croatia's accession to the Union and about the tasks that needed to be fulfilled before entering the bloc as well as talking about the situation in the region and that it was important to establish a good atmosphere.

It is in the joint interest of Europe and Croatia and the entire region to promote peace, cooperation, Europeanism", said Josipovic.