As part of the official visit of the Croatian President, a joint press conference was held by President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova and President Zoran Milanovic.
The integral introductory address by President Siljanovska-Davkova is give below:
Now, once again, publicly, my appreciation for your visit, President Milanovic. Thank you for the understanding and for the friendly relationship with Croatia. Thank you for the advice, I think it is very useful. What can I say about the relations between the two countries? – traditionally friendly. Let me repeat that we will never forget that in 2020, during the Croatian Presidency of the EU, we took a step together with Albania. It is a sign of understanding, a sign of support. The President and I, as before, said that relations in all areas are moving forward. Of course, they can be further developed. Croatia, despite being a member of the European Union, has an understanding of regional needs, an understanding of the Western Balkans – the President repeats many times that we are geographically, culturally and historically part of Europe.
What can I say about our waiting for membership into the European Union? – The Copenhagen criteria are what will make us a standard, European, boring state. The veto is not a friendly tool and I expect understanding. Of course, we must push the state agenda, because our legitimacy comes from the citizens. When I say this, I mean economically, culturally, educationally and scientifically, to develop. The screening shows that we are far ahead in harmonizing with the acquis communautaire. Our problems are of a different nature, they are tied to history, to the perception of culture, and even to language, things that are not discussed and negotiated. But, let me repeat: the veto will cause problems and we will not be an isolated case. We insist and seek our place in the EU according to the Copenhagen criteria. If I say that I hope we will find understanding tomorrow, I could be wrong. Yes, understanding from Croatia, yes, understanding from Slovenia, but I think that relations with other neighbors are also important. I expect us to take a step forward in that regard as well. Once again, I thank the President of Croatia for the visit and for the understanding.
