Gordan Jandroković, Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration
Five Stars Croatia Issue 3 — April 01, 2008.

One of the tasks of the Croatian diplomacy and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration is to present their country to foreign statesmen, diplomats, businessmen or people we meet in our everyday lives.

People of the world are aware of how beautiful our country is, and abundant with natural, historical and cultural diversities. Many of them are also aware of the unfortunate hardships Croatia had to go through since it has gained its independence. However, what in my opinion makes it special, and what I am not sure everybody is aware of, is the exceptional international political position that Croatia has, historically speaking, achieved over a relatively short time.

Today, Croatia is just a step away from the invitation to join NATO, and in a late stage of its negotiations for the European Union membership, having for the first time a specific deadline for completion of the process - the autumn of 2009. This is primarily a result of the successful implementation of the overall reforms, development of high democratic standards, and respect for human and minority rights.

In addition to approaching the Euro-Atlantic integrations, Croatia has significantly contributed to the stabilization and progress of its region, and has been recognized as a promoter of stability and security in Southeast Europe. Having successfully presided over the Southeast European Cooperation Process in 2006 and 2007 and launched the negotiations of the new Central European Free Trade Agreement, Croatia gave a political and economic impulse to the progress of the entire region. As a result, the Regional Cooperation Council led by a Croatian diplomat has been formed, and the so-called CEFTA 2006 has been signed as a new mechanism of regional cooperation.

Governed by such principles, Croatia has become a respectable factor on the global scene, and its active and constructive role has been recognized and confirmed by its election as a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council. Croatia has undergone a transformation from a country that was subject of discussions on establishment of peace to a country that takes a concrete part in seeking out solutions for global peace and stability.

Formerly receiving international missions in its days of need, Croatia has become a country desiring to offer and ensure a new opportunity for progress, education, peace and a better life to people in affected areas by its engagement in United Nations missions. Croatian soldiers, police officers and diplomats are involved in 16 such missions across the world.

I am convinced that such responsible and proactive foreign policy provides Croatia with a bright future. This primarily means Croatia as a member of the EU and NATO, the two strongest political and economic alliances. It also means Croatia as a prominent member of the UN and the global security forum, respecting human rights and international order. And finally, it means Croatia as a leading country in its region, continuing to provide help and support on the same path it once struggled through.