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May 20, 2008 (5:10 p.m. EDT) Minister Bernier Concludes Successful Visit to Croatia The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today concluded a visit to Croatia, an important partner for Canada in the international mission in Afghanistan. Minister Bernier expressed his support for Croatia’s democratic evolution and invitation to join NATO. “Canada is very pleased that Croatia was invited to begin talks to join NATO at the alliance’s recent summit in Bucharest, Romania,” said Minister Bernier. “Croatia’s expected NATO membership and ongoing participation in the mission in Afghanistan are two issues that make Canada and Croatia partners.” In Zagreb, Minister Bernier met with Gordan Jandroković, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, to review current trade and investment relations between the two countries and explore how they might be improved. “We are looking at ways to strengthen economic ties between our two countries,” said Minister Bernier. “With continued stability and prosperity in Croatia, bilateral trade and investment will grow.” An example of this growing bilateral commercial relationship is Croatia Airlines’ decision to purchase Bombardier aircraft. Minister Bernier observed a ceremony marking the inauguration of the first of a series of these aircraft into the Croatia Airlines fleet. Minister Bernier also met with President Stjepan Mesić and Prime Minister Ivo Sanader to discuss economic development and the security situation throughout the region. The Croatian-Canadian community numbers more than 100,000. This community has helped to broaden and deepen the Canada-Croatia relationship, acting as a bridge to promote better mutual understanding and to develop closer business ties. |