President Also Discusses EU Enlargement with Croatian Parliament's Chair

Bratislava, 21 May (TASR) - Slovakia will support the expansion of the European Union (EU) to include the countries of the Western Balkans, just as it supported Croatia in its integration efforts, President Peter Pellegrini stated at a meeting with Croatian Parliament's Chairman Gordan Jandrokovic on Thursday. The Slovak head of state received the speaker of the Croatian Parliament as part of his official visit to Slovakia. On the issue of EU enlargement, they agreed that the Western Balkans countries can contribute to greater stability and prosperity in the EU. "The head of state, however, pointed out that while candidate countries have the vision and determination, the EU must also contribute to the final outcome through an effective and swift integration process without unnecessary delays," reported the President's Office. The discussion also covered bilateral cooperation, including energy security issues. In this context, Pellegrini supported the prospect of mutual cooperation on oil supplies via the Croatian Adria pipeline, also highlighting recent activities with Croatian officials, including meetings between the presidents, and calling for more intensive interaction between the legislative bodies of both countries. am