MFAEI 144/05

, 18 July 2005

New ambassador at the Mission of the Republic of Croatia to the European Communities Branko Baričević handed in Brussels today, July 18, 2005, his credentials to the British Minister of State for Europe, Douglas Alexander, who is currently presiding over the Council of the European Union.

After handing the credentials, Ambassador Baričević congratulated Minister Alexander and wished him a successful presidency over the European Union on behalf of the Republic of Croatia President, Stjepan Mesić, and on behalf of the Croatian Prime Minister Ivo Sanader. Ambassador Baričević said he hoped the Republic of Croatia would start its EU negotiations during Britain''''s presidency. Minister Alexander thanked Ambassador Baričević for his congratulations, and wished him a successful mandate.

Ivana Crnić
Spokesperson