At the talks Kosor thanked Napolitano for the support Italy had been showing to Croatia since Croatia gained its independence. She recalled that the first statesman to visit Croatia was an Italian President.

Napolitano praised efforts the Croatian government made during its EU membership negotiations.

Today's talks focused on economic cooperation. Croatia is interested in Italian investments, notably in the energy sector and tourism, Kosor said, adding that Croatia wanted to additionally strengthen its economy before joining the European Union.

Napolitano thanked Croatia for respecting the rights of the Italian minority, the statement said.