The Croatian parliamentary Committee on the Economy and a delegation of the European Parliament's Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) on Wednesday held a joint meeting concerning Croatia's preparations to participate in the European Union internal market with its 500 million consumers which represents a great opportunity but also a challenge for Croatian businessmen and for Croatian citizens for whom this will also be an opportunity for better living conditions.
The EP delegation is conducting a two-day visit to Zagreb and Split in an effort to set up contacts and exchange information with Croatian authorities and businessmen concerning matters of common interest relating to free movement of goods and services, customs and consumer protection and in that way contribute to strengthening cooperation between the EP and the Croatian Sabor.
In that way the EP has expressed its full support for Croatia's entry into the internal EU market, of which Croatia will be a small but important part, the economic committee's chairman Igor Radjenovic told the press after the meeting.
Croatia will have a great strategic significance as a member of the EU and will be able to make a great contribution, IMCO Chairman MEP Malcolm Harbour said.
Croatian Parliament Speaker Josip Leko said that the EU internal market was one of the most interesting and most complex parts of European policy. He added that Croatia would continue to adapt to European standards in all fields so that it can be an equal, responsible and successful member of the EU.
It is in Croatia's interest being such a small, open and tourist country to integrate into the European market which is founded on free movement of goods, capital, freedom of the people, Radjenovic said during the meeting.
"As a small economy, Croatia has a specific position in the region and it can serve as a good bridge for further liberalisation but also democracy in countries in the region", he said.
