After talks with Croatian President Ivo Josipovic, the Pope greeted the Croatian delegation accompanying Josipovic and reporters covering the meeting. When one reporter asked if he would travel to Croatia next year, the pontiff said "probably", Agence France-Presse said.

Josipovic told press he invited the Pope to visit Croatia and that he was told that plans were being prepared for 2011, and that "a visit by the Holy Father to Croatia next year is being considered very seriously".

"It would be very important for Croatia's international position and relations within the country, because every visit by the Holy Father to any country is a message of peace, coexistence and love," said Josipovic.

Josipovic wrapped up his day-long stay in Rome by visiting the Pontifical Croatian College of St. Jerome and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.

Josipovic received the Order's highest decoration from its Prince and Grand Master, Fra Matthew Festing.