State Secretary Metelko-Zgombić meets Pope Francis, holds bilateral consultations at the Holy See

On November 13, 2024, State Secretary for Europe Andreja Metelko-Zgombić attended the General Audience with His Holiness Pope Francis, followed by a brief private meeting. On this occasion, she presented the Pope with a cross adorned with the traditional Croatian interlace (pleter), symbolizing centuries-old ties between the Holy See and the Croatian people. She also expressed gratitude for the Pope's closeness and prayers for Croatia.

Following her meeting with Pope Francis, the state secretary held bilateral consultations with Monsignor Mirosław Stanisław Wachowski, the Undersecretary for Relations with States at the Holy See's Secretariat of State. Discussions focused on bilateral relations, the Western Balkans, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

Both parties expressed satisfaction with the close and friendly relations between Croatia and the Holy See, underscored by the continuous dialogue on shared interests at high levels, as well as collaboration between the Croatian Government, local Church institutions, and Caritas. They recalled the historic role of Pope John Paul II in Croatia's journey to independence and international recognition, as well as his acts of goodwill toward the Croatian people.

The Holy See regards Croatia as a supporter of EU enlargement and appreciates its efforts in this regard, Monsignor Wachowski conveyed. The discussions reaffirmed shared views on the importance of a European perspective for all countries in the Western Balkans. Highlighting Croatia's interest in promoting peace, security, and stability in the region, Metelko-Zgombić outlined Croatia's active support for these countries' European paths, including through sharing knowledge and experience. Fulfilment of EU criteria, political readiness for good neighbourly relations, and alignment with European values were identified as crucial for progress. The two officials emphasized the significance of the decision to open accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina and stressed the need to ensure equality for all constituent peoples and other citizens.

The state secretary also informed Monsignor Wachowski of Croatia's continued and dedicated support for Ukraine, including financial aid exceeding 300 million EUR to date. Specific Croatian expertise and experiences from the Homeland War, such as humanitarian initiatives in demining and wounded soldier rehabilitation, are key components of this assistance. Croatia also remains committed to supporting Ukraine's European aspirations.

On November 12, 2024, the day prior to these meetings, Metelko-Zgombić inaugurated the event "An Evening of Glagolitic Script: Tradition as Inspiration and a Driver for Croatia's Branding" at the Pontifical Croatian College of St. Jerome in Rome. Co-organized by the College and the Embassy of Croatia to the Holy See, with financial support from the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, the event aimed to promote Croatian Glagolitic heritage globally through modern, innovative, and creative approaches. Professors Jasna Horvat, Ph.D., and Josipa Forjan, Ph.D., from the Faculty of Economics in Osijek, delivered an engaging lecture to an audience comprising members of the diplomatic, academic, and ecclesiastical communities.

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