Announcing that Croatia would celebrate its entry to the Union "with its friends in the region and the EU," Pusic underscored the significance of relations with neighbouring countries.

We consider the region a key area and a very important topic and very important neighbours. Yes, we have found a way by which delegations from Serbia and Kosovo can be represented at the highest level at the celebration, Pusic said in an interview with Serbia's B92 TV station during an official visit to Belgrade on Friday.

Pusic said that when Croatia joins the EU, there won't be any great changes but some changes are already visible and these will be more in the future.

We have our problems but we also have a huge chance, which is that countries in the region must be partners in the European future. That's a chance for all, first to stabilise the countries and then to stand on our feet economically, she said, adding that Serbia and Croatia had direct interest in the field of transport, energy and third markets.

Commenting on Serbia's and Croatia's readiness to resolve the problem of the genocide suits they filed with the International Court of Justice, Pusic said "there are several things from the past that need to be resolved as a precondition" and that these are "initiatives by the Serbian and Croatian sides. The EU does not deal with that matter".

Asked if Croatia now had the right to vote in the EU, would it vote for Serbia to be given a date to start accession negotiations, Pusic responded, "Absolutely! We would vote that the decision to start negotiations between the EU and Serbia be adopted in June already at the European Council and that the date be as soon as possible".

She added that she would participate in the work of the Council of Foreign Ministers on Monday and "without a doubt support the idea that Serbia be given a date, as I believe that is important not just for Serbia but Croatia and all countries in the region too".