More Assertive Foreign Policy

Transcription

1 NEWSLETTER of The Office of The President of The Republic of Croatia More Assertive Foreign Policy

2 / 02 Excellencies, members of the diplomatic corps, Six months have passed since I assumed the office of President of the Republic of Croatia. I am pleased to be able to share with you this first edition of our newsletter Views and News. The intention of this newsletter is to share with you the positions, views and projects of my Office pertaining to foreign policy and economic affairs. With respect to foreign policy, I am pursuing an assertive and dynamic Croatian foreign policy. I am resolute that Croatia should engage more within the framework of the EU and NATO. Membership in these two organisations is central to European and Euro-Atlantic cooperation and security however it should not be an excuse for us to neglect bilateral relations with all the member states. Croatia s foreign policy must have a clear profile determined primarily by its underlying values and those it advocates. I firmly believe that increased cooperation along the Adriatic-Baltic vertical can stimulate further strengthening of the European project. In the countries located along this vertical, membership is not taken for granted since it has been achieved more recently and support for EU membership is stronger than in the so-called old member states. Cooperation along this vertical, located on the eastern border of the EU, can be strengthened in the domain of politics and security, as well as economy and energy. Given its optimal position and potential, Croatia can play a crucial role in this endeavour. All the European leaders with whom I have met accept and support this initiative. Likewise, Croatia has interests pertaining to its South- East European neighbourhood. It has vital interests in the lasting stability and welfare of all the countries in this part of Europe, which need be strongly supported on their European and Euro-Atlantic paths. I avoid the terms the region or the Western Balkans because in my view they contribute to some sort of isolation and ghettoization of this part of the Old Continent. South-East Europe should be fully consolidated within the EU and NATO for those that wish so. This will provide for an environment conducive for resolving a number of outstanding issues that continue to burden bilateral relations between individual states of South-East Europe. For quite some time, Croatia has neglected some of its already established friendships and alliances, or has failed to recognise opportunities for new alliances with key stakeholders in international relations. I am not only referring to the Permanent Members of the United Nations Security Council but also to increasingly important regional actors that have entered the global arena, such as G20, countries like Morocco, South Africa, India, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Vietnam, Canada, Mexico, Columbia, Chile and Brazil. Some progress has been made in terms of fostering closer relations with the leading nations of Central Asia and the Middle East. Economic affairs are appropriately emphasized in current global diplomacy; consequently much more needs to be done to stimulate stronger involvement and cooperation of all the relevant institutions in order to ensure efficient horizontal coordination among the different bodies of the state s administration.

3 / 03 Croatia is able to contribute significantly to efforts in international cooperation on a number of issues, ranging from the rights of women and girls, international development assistance and sustainable development, regardless of its strength and size. With respect to the economy, the second vital focus of my Office, I have started by initiating an all-encompassing scan and overview of the current economic trends in Croatia as well as their relation to global trends. Equipped with the key findings of this screening procedure, I have appointed an internal economic team within my office, and established an Economic Affairs Council. Members of the Council are representatives of the most relevant Croatian institutions, NGOs, faculties and business media. My intention is to develop and support a strong institutional framework in Croatia by providing our institutions with a platform from which they will be able to reach a broad audience both the general public and experts. The expertise of our institutions should be the backbone of our long-term economic development. I would like to inspire a constructive debate that would offer pertinent proposals for possible future activities and measures. The objective to which we aspire is to foster an entrepreneurial-friendly climate and mentality. Our intention is to propose specific measures for removing red tape obstacles, to improve the investment climate and raise awareness about crucial issues and challenges that lie ahead. I will also place special emphasis on issues that are strongly intertwined with the Croatian economy and society at large such as those concerning the education system and its compatibility with the needs of our modern economy, and especially the issue of demography and recent waves of emigration from Croatia that are a real and imminent threat requiring systematic, long-term and decisive action. My activities and focus on economic affairs are greatly interlinked with my foreign policy efforts and the steps I have already undertaken, particularly in terms of fostering economic cooperation along the Adriatic-Baltic vertical. Opportunities for cooperation are enormous and it is obvious that the relevant countries are ready for further engagement.. Furthermore, I intend to extensively use Croatia s economic diplomacy as a strong tool for reaching our economic objectives related to international trade and investment. Solutions need to be found to address the challenges that Croatia has been facing with respect to its public debt, budget deficit so that we may finally fully capitalize on our membership in the European Union. I see numerous possibilities and benefits from Croatia s euro zone accession and therefore strongly support this path. This is not easy to achieve, especially in the light of the recent developments within the euro zone, however through a strong political decision and commitment we will be on the right track to being a productive member. I hope that we will all continue to work together towards achieving our common objectives for the benefit of our citizens and our countries. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović

4 / 04 Strong support to the European and Euro-Atlantic path of Bosnia and Herzegovina SARAJEVO, 3 March For her first official visit, President Kolinda Grabar- Kitarović travelled to Bosnia and Herzegovina where she met with the Chairman and members of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina. I will strongly support the European and Euro- Atlantic path of Bosnia and Herzegovina based on the fulfilment of the conditionality policy, using my position to ensure the attention of key partners in the international community, primarily the EU and the US, and will provide overall support to BiH on that path, said President Grabar-Kitarović after meeting with the Chairman and members of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Mladen Ivanić, Dragan Čović and Bakir Izetbegović. The basis for my perspective in relations with BiH is to respect the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as providing support for the constituent status and equality of all three of its peoples, without neglecting the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina called others, added President Grabar-Kitarović.

5 / 05 ADVOCATING the promotion of women s rights NEW YORK, 6-10 March President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, participated at a conference organised by the Clinton and Gates foundations on the theme: Not There Yet: A Data Driven Analysis of Gender Equality. President Grabar-Kitarović emphasised that she always strongly advocates strengthening the role of women in maintaining peace and security. She is firmly convinced that women must be empowered in order for peace and security to be preserved, their voices must be heard, and their participation must be guaranteed. The importance of the role of women as peacekeepers is growing, but at the same time they are poorly represented in peacekeeping operations, said the President. In order to improve the rights of women and their overall position the President suggested that additional efforts were needed; to include women in peace negotiations and operations; to develop mechanisms to end impunity in cases of abuse in areas of conflict and act preventively; to develop a policy of gender equality, and strengthen women s participation in political and social life; most importantly, to promote education as the most important prerequisite for strengthening the position of women, thereby empowering them. Among the meetings on the margins of the Conference, the President of Croatia had a meeting with former US President Bill Clinton and former US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.

6 / 06 Strengthening CROATIAN-GERMAN bilateral cooperation BERLIN, 17 March President Grabar-Kitarović met with Federal President Joachim Gauck and Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel. President Grabar-Kitarović and President Gauck exchanged views on the role of Germany in the European and Transatlantic architecture, the opportunities for strengthening Croatian-German bilateral relations, and discussed a number of regional and global challenges. Current relations in economy, science, culture and tourism were also reviewed, with special emphasis placed on the situation in South-Eastern Europe and the importance of a coordinated action towards all the countries aspiring to EU and NATO membership. President Grabar-Kitarović and Chancellor Angela Merkel devoted most of their discussions to the situation in South Eastern Europe. Chancellor Merkel showed particular interest in the Brdo-Brijuni process and the importance of this initiative in supporting the countries of South East Europe on their EU path. Special emphasis was placed on the possibilities for strengthening Croatian-German bilateral cooperation, especially in the domains of economy and science.

7 / 07 CROATIAN- BULGARIAN Economic Forum ZAGREB, 14 April During the official visit of the President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Rosen Plevneliev to Croatia, a Croatian-Bulgarian Economic Forum was held in Zagreb, within the scope of the programme. President Grabar-Kitarović and President Plevneliev agreed that Croatia and Bulgaria boast excellent political relations, but that there is insufficient economic cooperation stressing that there is in fact considerable potential for strengthening cooperation, for instance, in the area of energy and transport linkages to Europe. President Grabar-Kitarović presented several possible tiers of cooperation between the two countries. The first tier would be the planned infrastructure projects - highways, railways, airports. The second tier would include the area of tourism, the food industry, small shipbuilding, and IC technology, and the third tier would improve cooperation within energy and transport linkages. These linkages are particularly important for the future of the countries in Central and South Eastern Europe. The President specifically pointed out that in the context of strengthening energy cooperation there is an important opportunity ahead for Croatia and Bulgaria to create a new gas market. President Plevneliev confirmed that Bulgary plans to build gas interconnections with neighbouring countries in order to achieve a European Energy Union, because each country has the right to alternative sources of supply.

8 / 08 President Grabar-Kitarović, President Fischer and President Pahor Held a Trilateral Meeting LOGAR VALLEY, 17 April The President of Croatia, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, the President of Austria, Heinz Fischer, and the President of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, held a trilateral meeting devoted to regional cooperation. In her address following the meeting, President Grabar- Kitarović pointed out that Croatia, Austria and Slovenia have excellent relations and share common interests; those interests being the future of Europe and the European Union project. All three presidents expressed concerns about the crisis of values in the European Union, the values of openness, respect for diversity and the values that unite and connect. We feel that scepticism is eroding both the European project and the enlargement of the European Union, said President Grabar-Kitarović. Regarding the enlargement of the European Union, President Grabar-Kitarović emphasised that this is a process that has empowered and strengthened the European Union, and that it must continue.

9 / 09 President of the Italian Republic visited Croatia ZAGREB, 23 April President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, received the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, during his official visit to Croatia. Both presidents pointed out the excellent, and friendly relations between the two countries. Italy welcomed Croatia s accession to the EU as a success, because it created a new centre of gravity in the European Union, said President Mattarella, adding that as a consequence Central Europe is more complete. This has created a point of equilibrium in the economy and trade between Central and Eastern Europe. Italy is Croatia s first foreign trade partner, but the level of investment could be better, said President Grabar-Kitarović, and assessed that there is scope for companies from both countries to engage in joint ventures, not only in the region but also beyond, especially in the energy sector, the upgrading and modernisation of railways, food processing, and IT industry. The two presidents agreed that the causes of illegal immigration need to be addressed in order to avoid new humanitarian disasters in the Mediterranean.

10 / 10 Meetings with EU and NATO officials BRUSSELS, April President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović kicked off an official visit to Brussels by meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg with whom she discussed new security challenges and further adjustments of the Alliance. President Grabar- Kitarović confirmed that Croatia will remain a committed ally in spreading peace, security and stability. The situation in neighbouring southeastern countries and their accession to the EU was discussed at the meeting with the President of the European Council Donald Tusk. President Tusk stressed Croatia s significant role in achieving European energy security and in the energy projects of the Union. The EU would greatly benefit from an accelerated realisation of the LNG terminal Krk Island project. During the President of the European Commission Jean- Claude Juncker, President Grabar-Kitarović expressed the desire for a much more prominent position for Croatia within the EU, assessing that after almost two years of membership, the time has come for Croatia to assume a more assertive role when it comes to creating common policies.

11 / TH ANNIVERSARY Marking the end of World War II GDAŃSK, 7 May President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, together with heads of state and senior officials of the European Union and international bodies took part in the celebrations marking the end of the war which was waged on three continents and took the lives of over 60 million people. Seventy years after World War II and 20 years since the brutal war in Croatia and the Srebrenica massacre, today more than ever, it is important for Europe to show it respects the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states, said President Grabar-Kitarović at the conference entitled: European Integration Lesson from World War II and its Contemporary Meaning. She also stressed the importance of a culture of peace, tolerance, trust and solidarity. This can be achieved through European integration, she said, and warned that the integration of the EU is unfinished business and advocated the European integration of the countries in South Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans.

12 / 12 CROATIA will be the voice of AFGHANISTAN in the European Union KABUL, May President Grabar-Kitarović payed an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan where she met with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. I am proud that in the past 12 years Croatia has participated in the NATO-led ISAF operation and continues to participate in the Resolute Support mission, with the main task of Croatian troops being to train the members of the Afghan security forces, President Grabar-Kitarović said. She confirmed that Croatia will continue to assist Afghanistan, not only in the training of Afghan security forces, but also through development projects, aimed at benefiting children, the health of the population, and particularly the empowerment of women. President Ghani presented the possibilities for economic cooperation with Afghanistan in the future, in particular on major infrastructure projects. President Ghani, like President Grabar-Kitarović, highlighted the contribution of Croatian soldiers towards the establishment of peace in the country and in the training Afghan forces. Only a country such as Croatia, which has gone through the sufferings of war, can in the best sense understand all the difficulties which Afghanistan has gone through for decades, underlined President Ghani. Croatian President and Commander in Chief of the Croatian Armed Forces met with thirty members of the Croatian contingent, who are currently serving in the NATO-led mission Resolute Support, at the HQ in Kabul. She also visited Camp Marmal military base, situated near Mazar-e Sharif, which accommodates the majority of the Croatian contingent s force participating in the new NATO-led mission, Resolute Support.

13 / 13 President Grabar-Kitarović with Pope Francis VATICAN, May President Grabar-Kitarović met with Pope Francis during an audience at the Papal Home. The President described talks with the Pope as being very cordial and that they included many topics the situation in Croatia, and in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the situation in the world, the global crisis and the problems Christians are contending with, as well as other issues concerning global security. In particular, what we agreed on is the social situation in Croatia, the major crisis, the departure of young people, problems with the demographics, aging, the demise of Croatia, and the crisis of the family, said President Grabar-Kitarović, adding that she had asked Pope Francis to pray for the Croatian state and for all of us, for the Croatian people and our future.

14 / 14 SUMMIT 100 of Business Leaders of Southeast Europe PORTOROŽ, 1 June At the invitation of the President of Slovenia, Borut Pahor, President Grabar-Kitarović, participated at the economic conference Summit100 of Business Leaders of Southeast Europe. President Grabar-Kitarović emphasised that Croatia supports the EU accession of the states of South Eastern Europe viewing it as a key to resolving stability, peace and prosperity to these areas. I view EU membership as a foundation of trust that will be developed for the freedom of movement of people, capital, services, and goods, said the President. The task for all of us here, politicians and economists alike, is to change the overall image of our area, our neighbourhood, because it is crucial for attracting investments, said the President. She added that this is important for the development of transport and energy infrastructure, for tourism, for the future of mutual relations, and the fulfilment of the strategic objectives of South Eastern Europe joining NATO and the EU as members.

15 / 15 CROATIA continues to support the EU and NATO enlargement BUDVA, 6 June President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović participated in the 2BS Forum entitled Future Perspectives of the Global Security Architecture. In her address, President Grabar-Kitarović expressed strong support for Montenegro to receive an invitation to NATO membership by the end of Related to the European project, the President pointed out her concerns about the European Union in terms of reassessing the value of the European project and fatigue over EU s enlargement. She underlined that we must do everything in our power to ensure that the project is further continued. President Grabar-Kitarović highlighted that Croatia would continue to support the enlargement of the EU and the open door policy of NATO, and would continue to strongly support Montenegro s Euro-Atlantic affiliation.

16 / 16 Annual Leaders Meeting of the Brdo-Brijuni Process BUDVA, 8 June The Leaders of the Brdo-Brijuni Process reaffirmed their commitment to membership in the EU as a guarantee for maintaining peace and stability in the region. They also committed themselves to cooperate and address all political and economic issues through open and constant dialogue, while refraining from rhetoric or actions that could raise tensions. In this regard, they underlined the necessity to augment the political engagement of the EU in South Eastern Europe particularly in terms of the enlargement process ensuring that it is once again high on the EU political agenda. Besides the Co-Chairs of the initiative, Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović and Slovenian President Borut Pahor, and the host, Montenegrin President Filip Vujanović, the annual meeting was attended by Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov, Serbian President Tomislav Nikolić, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Mladen Ivanić, Albanian President Bujar Nishani and Kosovo President Atifete Jahjaga. This year s meeting was also host to an honorary guest, Austrian President Heinz Fischer. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Leaders agreed that Bosnia and Herzegovina will host the next Leaders Meeting of the Brdo-Brijuni Process.

17 / 17 The importance of improved energy and transportation networks between Zagreb and Bucharest ZAGREB, 15 June President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović received the President of Romania, Klaus Werner Iohannis, during his official visit to Croatia. President Grabar-Kitarović and Romanian President Werner Iohannis agreed that Croatia and Romania enjoy excellent bilateral political relations and that there is a mutual interest in promoting further economic cooperation. President Grabar-Kitarović highlighted the importance of improved energy and transportation networks between Zagreb and Bucharest. Especially in the area of the Danube and the Danube corridor, which Croatia has still not sufficiently exploited as an international transport route. She stressed the desire and intention to strengthen the trilateral cooperation between Croatia, Hungary and Romania, as well as the Adriatic-Baltic vertical. As projects of common interest, President Grabar- Kitarović noted the LNG terminal on the Island of Krk, and restoration projects of the hydroelectric power stations, transportation infrastructure, as well as cooperation in the field of IT and modern technologies.

18 / 18 President Grabar-Kitarović visited AUSTRIA VIENNA, 18 June At the invitation of the Federal President of the Republic of Austria, Dr Heinz Fischer, President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović embarked on an official working visit to the Republic of Austria. After the meeting with President Fischer, President Grabar-Kitarović welcomed Austria s interest in investments in the energy sector, particularly with respect to the LNG Terminal, and the use of renewable energy. She stressed that the two states do not only share common interests on a bilateral basis, but also in respect to establishing the Baltic-Adriatic corridor and the construction of transport and energy infrastructure in South Eastern Europe. We also share common interests when it comes to the accession of South Eastern Europe countries into NATO and the EU, and even though Austria is not a NATO member, it is still a worthy and important partner in that process, said the President of Croatia. Furthermore, during the visit to Austria, President Grabar-Kitarović and President Fischer attended the presentation of the wrapping of Vienna s Ringturm with the art installation Summer Pleasures created by Croatian artist Tanja Deman.

19 / 19 President Grabar-Kitarović with her Slovak counterpart Kiska BRATISLAVA, 19 June During a working visit to the Slovak Republic, President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, met with Slovak President Andrej Kiska. The two Presidents emphasised the very good relations and distinct similarities that the two states share, and discussed the prospects for strengthening mutual economic relations. They discussed the situation in the countries of South Eastern Europe, particularly their European and Euro-Atlantic perspectives. There was also an exchange of views regarding the situation in the Ukraine and the challenges it poses to the European security architecture. During the meeting, the Croatian President briefed her Slovak host on the initiative to strengthen cooperation along the Adriatic-Baltic vertical.

20 / 20 GLOBSEC 2015: Security should not be taken for granted BRATISLAVA, June President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović participated in the GLOBSEC 2015 Global Security Forum. In the panel entitled The Balkan Chessboard: A free and complete Europe at stake?, the President indicated that finding a way out of the simultaneous situation of enlargement fatigue in the EU and reform fatigue among the South Eastern Europe candidate countries is actuated by necessity, asking how meaningful content can be given to the accession waiting room. She cautioned that the cumulative level of security and stability in South Eastern Europe should not be taken for granted given the range of new and growing threats to the European borders. On the margins of the Forum, President Grabar- Kitarović met with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, David Cameron and with her Georgian counterpart, Giorgi Margvelashvili. In addition to a brief overview of the perspectives for strengthening bilateral Croatian-British relations, President Grabar-Kitarović and Prime Minister Cameron focused much of their conversation on an open exchange of views concerning the situation in South Eastern Europe, making reference to the key challenges for the EU and the international community that Prime Minister Cameron brought up in his opening remarks at the GLOBSEC Forum just prior to their bilateral meeting. During the talks with President Margvelashvili, President Grabar-Kitarović emphasised her support of Georgia s efforts geared towards European and Euro- Atlantic integration. It was also pointed out that good bilateral relations exist between the two countries with no open issues, but that additional efforts are needed in order to enhance economic cooperation. The President of Georgia expressed his interest in Croatia s reform experiences and the effects of transformation in converging with the European Union.

21 / 21 Croatia and Lithuania strongly focused on common energy interests ZAGREB, 29 June This visit will contribute to the cooperation within the Adriatic-Baltic vertical, in my opinion Croatia naturally belongs to the milieu of Central European countries, and in this sense we can do much more to become connected to each other in order to take advantage of the benefits of European Union membership, said President Grabar-Kitarović after meeting with the President of the Republic of Lithuania, Dalia Grybauskaitė, who officially visited Croatia. Croatia and Lithuania share common interests in terms of energy independence which is just as crucial for political stability as it is for the economy. President Grabar-Kitarović pointed out that Lithuania s experience in developing the LNG terminal is valuable to us. We will use such experiences to develop our terminal at Krka. The two presidents also participated in the Croatian- Lithuanian High Level Energy Forum: Towards European Energy Union. Securing European energy self-sustainability is thus essential, as our overall economic development, the sustainability of our industries and finally, the employment of our citizens, depend on it, said President Grabar-Kitarović, and added that Croatia s key strategic projects are the LNG Terminal on the Island of Krk, the Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline, and the exploration and exploitation of hydrocarbons which all have added value for the region and Europe.

22 / 22 Croatia wants to see Macedonia as a member of the EU and NATO ZAGREB, 6 July President Grabar-Kitarović received the President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr Gjorge Ivanov, who paid an official visit to Croatia. Croatia is a member of the European Union and NATO, and wants to see Macedonia as its members, which is why we are continuing with an ongoing dialogue at all levels, ranging from political relations, the economy, defence, national security, culture and science, said the Croatian President further taking the opportunity to send a strong message, together with the Macedonian President, on the willingness and commitment of Macedonia to take the Euro-Atlantic path and undertake reforms. Talking about the situation in South Eastern Europe, President Grabar-Kitarović highlighted that the situation has become much worse than it was a few years ago. The negative processes, security threats, burdensome security challenges from the east and the south, internal challenges in certain countries, and the issue of migration are all contributing to Eurosceptism, she said. There is a feeling of fatigue in SE Europe due to the situations that these countries have found themselves in and because of a loss of optimism. President Grabar-Kitarović said that this needs to be overcome and that the right message needs to be sent about how reforms and reform efforts will be rewarded with corresponding progress on the path to membership with the EU and NATO.

23 / 23 CROATIA FORUM 2015: Development Assistance is Not Just Our Moral Obligation but Our Interest DUBROVNIK, 9 July New Development Policy-Towards Partnership and a Common Vision was the main topic of the tenth annual Croatia Forum, the traditional foreign policy conference organised by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. Development assistance is not just a moral issue, not just our moral obligation, it is our interest, because the question of security threats that we see today in the Mediterranean area and the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, can be resolved not only by military means alone, and often not by military means at all, but instead exclusively through development assistance and international cooperation, stated President Grabar-Kitarović in her address at the opening of the Croatia Forum conference. The President noted that the immigration issue is a typical example that shows us how we have to organise ourselves, how we have to take action, establish partnerships and a common vision how to address such problems, deal with them and eliminate them. It is not enough to care for the immigrants who are currently in Europe. The quotas or percentages can be a very shortterm solution, and sometimes even counterproductive, because they can encourage further immigration, said President Grabar-Kitarović, adding that it is necessary to deal with the challenges that induce the situation, such as armed conflict, poverty, lack of healthcare, lack of education, lack of the kind of opportunities that we have, and conditions that are worthy of every human life and every human being.

24 / 24 Embarking upon the Process of Energy Integration DUBROVNIK, 10 July President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, participated in the Opening of the Central and South Eastern Europe Gas Connectivity Conference (CESEC). In her address, the President stressed that energy security is currently one of the key political challenges that we must face together, and that it is time to attend to the matter so that our efforts may be translated into concrete results. As you know, the strategic geopolitical location of Croatia in the heart of Europe, with a long coastal area that is in close proximity to major European markets, coupled with excellent infrastructure and a qualified workforce, makes us a well-suited destination for investments in energy projects that can further enhance our collective security, and can also bring benefits to citizens and economic operators of South Eastern Europe, said the President. She added that Croatia s key energy projects, being the terminal for liquefied natural gas on the Island of Krk, the Adriatic-Ionic Pipeline, and oil and gas exploitation, can have multiple positive effects across the region and, more broadly, across Central and South Eastern Europe. I deeply believe that energy security is about regional cooperation and stability, said President Grabar- Kitarović, stressing that we have embarked on the process of energy integration, a process that should be guided by the principles of solidarity, trust and respect. The possible lack of a coordinated approach in Central and South Eastern Europe could severely undermine our ability to provide for accessible and competitive energy for our citizens and economic operators. The road to a truly single energy market can be achieved via the stronger integration of regional energy markets, concluded President Grabar-Kitarović.

25 / 25 We all have a Lasting Obligation to the Memory of the Victims SREBRENICA, 11 July Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović attended the commemoration programme marking the twentieth anniversary of the genocide against Bosniaks in the UN Safe Zone of Srebrenica, and the funeral of the newly identified victims of July 1995 at Srebrenica Potočari Memorial Centre and Cemetery. We all have a lasting obligation to the memory of the victims. It obligates us so that Srebrenica, as the site of the gravest crime after the Second World War, remains in our thoughts even beyond 11 July, the day when we commemorate the anniversary of, what is for the modern international community, a shameful genocide. It obligates us to always all over again maintain Srebrenica as a warning of what happens when international mechanisms fail, when collective conscience fails, when there is no will for timely action, when the task of preserving the fundamental human right to life is not fulfilled. I firmly believe in reconciliation and in a new beginning that is based on the truth, on the acceptance of one s own responsibility, and on having compassion for the sufferings and pains of neighbours and fellow citizens, said President Grabar-Kitarović in her remarks. This year s memorial service saw the largest number of foreign dignitaries gather to pay tribute to the victims of Srebrenica.

26 / 26 Israel Has in Croatia a Friend, an Ally and a Reliable Partner JERUSALEM, July During the working visit to the State of Israel, President Grabar-Kitarović met with the President of the State of Israel, Reuven Rivlin, and the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu. President Grabar-Kitarović and Prime Minister Netanyahu exchanged opinions concerning economic cooperation between Croatia and Israel, especially in the energy sector and the pharmaceutical industry. They also exchanged information and views on security issues and the challenges in the Middle East and in South Eastern Europe. Particular reference was made regarding the Middle East peace process and the agreement recently reached concerning the Iranian nuclear issue. At the meeting with President Rivlin, President Grabar-Kitarović underscored Croatia s support for the resumption of the Israeli-Palestinian dialogue and the efforts being undertaken by the international community to find an immediate solution to this issue. However, the President stressed that the achievement of lasting peace and security in the region depends primarily on the Israelis and the Palestinians themselves. Just as Israel is entitled to peace and security, the Palestinians also have the right to their own state, one with normal living conditions, she added. At the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, President Grabar-Kitarović attended a ceremony during which Branko Lustig bestowed the Museum with the Oscar he was awarded for his work on the motion picture Schindler s List. Addressing the survivors of the Holocaust, the families and descendants of those who perished in the Holocaust, President Grabar-Kitarović expressed

27 / 27 her appreciation for the invitation extended to her by Branko Lustig and for his efforts in promoting tolerance, in providing education and teaching the young generations in Croatia to avoid repeating the events that occurred during the Second World War. At this solemn place, I also want to express deep sorrow for all the victims who perished in the Holocaust in Croatia at the hands of the collaborationist Ustashi regime during the Second World War victims from the Jewish community, but also many Roma, Serbs and Croats, and all those who were deemed to be enemies of the regime of the time, said the Croatian President, and expressed deepest sympathy with the pain and the sufferings of the survivors of the Holocaust of Croatian origin, their family members and the descendants of those who are no longer with us. The President visited the Holocaust Museum exhibition and laid a wreath in the Hall of Remembrance.

28 / 28 President of the Republic at the European Forum Alpbach ALPBACH, 30 August The President of the Republic, Kolinda Grabar- Kitarović, participated in the debate on The Future of Europe at this year s European Forum Alpbach. Speaking about the refugee crisis that Europe is currently facing, President Grabar-Kitarović stated that she is afraid that this is only the beginning since millions of people are waiting at Europe s doorstep. She said that the European Union should not only discuss the number of refugees it is going to accept but also reasons compelling these people to leave northern Africa and the Middle East, as well as raise the question of whether we are capable of making foreign, security and international development aid policies that will contribute to the solution of the issue. The Croatian President added that many see that the EU is facing challenges, such as the crisis of vision, the crisis of strategy, the crisis of identity and the crisis of leadership. She stated that these four challenges have an impact on the very foundation of the European Union its solidarity. She also said that Euroscepticism and Europhobia combined with economic hardships are vividly present in many Member States, particularly in the so-called old member states, often blaming the late comers for a decline in prosperity and calling into question the process of further EU enlargement. She emphasised the importance of enlargement of the European Union in South-East Europe. Our duty and responsibility as politicians, but also as EU citizens, is to open and lead a strategic discussion on what we want to achieve and how we want to achieve it, stated the Croatian President adding that we must set realistic goals. She said that the crisis that Europe is faced with can be turned into an opportunity

29 / 29 for a new vision of Europe a Europe that is at the service of its citizens, a Europe that is competitive and creative in the digital economy, a Europe that has new climate and energy policies and providing a secure environment for its citizens to fully enjoy the fundamental freedoms that the EU is based on. Speaking on the idea of United States of Europe or a multi-tiered Europe, the President stated that she supports the European project, the community of partnerships among people, which focuses on its citizen, and where tradition is respected and identities preserved. Prior to the opening of the European Forum Alpbach, President Grabar-Kitarović met with the Slovenian President, Borut Pahor. We had a very constructive and friendly discussion since Slovenia and Croatia are friendly countries and our relations must further develop in this direction, regardless of the differences that we are currently having with regard to the arbitration procedure, which continue to exist, stated President Grabar-Kitarović after the meeting with President Pahor. Furthermore, she highlighted that the emphasis today was placed on constructive cooperation and voiced her satisfaction with the development of friendly cooperation within the framework of the European Union, NATO and bilaterally. Referring to the Brdo-Brijuni Presidential Process, President Grabar-Kitarović and President Pahor stated that they invited the US Vice-President, Joseph Biden, to participate in the next meeting of the Process. Likewise, they sent a joint letter to the President of the European Council Donald Tusk with a proposal that one of the sessions of the European Council be dedicated to the enlargement of the European Union in South-East Europe.

30 / 30 Importance of Partnerships in Present-Day International Relations BLED, 31 August The President of the Republic, Kolinda Grabar- Kitarović, participated in a panel entitled New Global Order: Confrontation or Partnerships? at the Bled Strategic Forum. Speaking on the issue of refugees, President Grabar- Kitarović stated that the Republic of Croatia does not intend to erect walls or fences adding that the issue is very complex and that we need to be prepared so that we can take a more humane approach to the issue. root causes compelling people to leave their countries. As part of its foreign, security and development policies, and in cooperation with international organisations such as OSCE and the UN, the European Union should work on finding solutions to ensure better common preparedness for facing the issue of migrations. The Croatian President underlined that in the process of resolving such complex issues, partnerships among all actors in present-day international relations are crucial, ranging from states, international organisations, civil societies to the private sector and media. The President further stated that quotas will not resolve the problem, but rather we need to address the

31 / 31 European Council President Donald Tusk on Official Visit to Croatia ZAGREB, 1 September The President of the Republic, Kolinda Grabar- Kitarović, received the President of the European Council, Donald Tusk, on his official visit to Croatia. Following a welcoming ceremony in the Office of the President, a téte-à-téte meeting and bilateral talks, President Grabar-Kitarović stated that the first official visit of a President of the European Council to Croatia since our accession to the European Union is an opportunity to discuss with President Tusk the achievements of the past two years and the advantages of membership. The Croatian President expressed the view that Croatia can and must be more assertive and ambitious when it comes to making rather than just following European policies. In that sense, she expressed her conviction that Croatia can give a much greater contribution, not only with respect to foreign affairs and security policies, but also to sectoral issues ranging from agriculture, fisheries to energy. She added that Croatian citizens still do not have a clear perception that we are a fullfledged member of the European Union and that we are now participating in the making of European policies, not only in terms of utilising funds but also that we truly are a part of the area of prosperity and that we share common responsibilities and obligations.

32 / 32 With the President of the European Council, President Grabar-Kitarović also discussed a burning issue, the issue of migrants in the European area. My opinion and my firm position is that this is a much more complex issue than merely providing for the needs of the current migrants. We need to cooperate much more, stated the President adding that this is not only a humanitarian issue but a complex issue we shall continue to deal with in years to come. The President holds the view that it is necessary to work on eliminating the root causes compelling migrants to come to the area of the European Union, which means cooperation with the nations of northern Africa, from Libya, over Tunisia and Egypt, to Jordan and Turkey. Commenting on the arbitration issue with Slovenia, President Grabar-Kitarović stated that she informed the President of the European Council and his delegation about Croatia s position with regard to the arbitration procedure. Croatia s position is that the arbitration procedure has been irreversibly compromised and that we therefore cannot trust it, stated the President adding that the Croatian Parliament adopted a unanimous decision on instructing the Croatian Government to suspend and cease to apply the arbitration procedure. We want to resolve the border issue with Slovenia and we will do everything we can in order to remain a positive example of cooperation among states which have an outstanding issue to resolve but not in the way that this outstanding issue defines their overall mutual relations, said the President. When the agreement was concluded, the European Union was not a party to the agreement but exclusively acted as a facilitator to both parties on their way to the solution. However, this is a bilateral issue and what we expect and what we will appreciate from the European Commission, the Council and individual Member States is to take such a position in this matter that they do not support the standpoint of either of the parties but rather encourage them to further seek a solution, stated the Croatian President. During the meeting with the President of the European Council, the issues and challenges in the area of South- East Europe were also discussed and in this sense the President of Republic expressed Croatia s clear position on the accession of the neighbouring countries to the European Union provided that they fulfil all the requirements. Croatia will continue to assist them on their path and further develop good neighbourly relations.

33 Let us Nurture and Promote a Modern Patriotism! ZAGREB, 25 June On the occasion of Statehood Day, President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović hosted a formal reception which was attended by representatives of political, public and cultural life, judiciary, Armed Forces, and members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of religious communities, non-governmental organisations, and representatives of the business and the media community. In her speech, President Grabar-Kitarović said that this day reminds us of an important historical event, the proclamation of a sovereign and independent Republic of Croatia on 25 June 1991, but also on the long heritage of battling for the preservation of Croatian statehood. Having endured a difficult path of defence, gaining international recognition, securing military victory, reintegrating our territory, realising reconstructions and returns, and general social and democratic transformations, our state also achieved the goals of membership to NATO as well as the European Union, said President Grabar-Kitarović. The President emphasised a more ambitious foreign policy, strengthening established and somewhat neglected friendships and alliances, the Adriatic- Baltic vertical, and developing the Homeland security system - especially modern Armed Forces that she gives particular attention to as its Commander in Chief. These are the strategic guidelines of state policy for building a modern Croatian state. Our joint success, the success of our state and the well-being of each one of us rests primarily on the willingness to incorporate ourselves in the goals of common good, which relies on our hard work, creativity, learning, integrity, fairness, tolerance, social sensitivity and solidarity. These are the fundamental components of modern patriotism that we want to nurture and promote said President Grabar-Kitarović. Views and News is a free electronic newsletter published monthly by the Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia, Pantovčak 241, Zagreb. Tel: 01/ ; Fax: 01/ All rights reserved. For a free subscription, to unsubscribe or comment: newsletter@predsjednica.hr.