The two ministers said bilateral relations were excellent and friendly, that there was political dialogue at all levels, and that both countries were interested in intensifying and expanding cooperation, notably in the economy. They said Croatian and Korean companies must step up cooperation with a view to increasing trade.

Jandrokovic called on South Korea to invest in Croatia and highlighted the importance of the Croatian seaport of Rijeka as a link between Korean business people and European markets, notably once Croatia joined the European Union. He mentioned the investment of the Samsung company in the Rijeka port.

The two officials discussed global trends in the shipbuilding industry. Shin expressed understanding for the situation in Croatia's shipbuilding and said Korea was restructuring this sector.

The two officials said tourism was an area in which cooperation could be improved further. Jandrokovic praised the announcement of the first direct charter flight from Korea to Croatia on September 18, saying it would increase the number of South Korean tourists. In the first six months of 2010, their arrivals were up 75 per cent on the year.

The ministers also discussed the political situation in East Asia and Southeast Europe.

Jandrokovic congratulated the town of Yeosu on being chosen to host the Expo 2012 exhibition, saying Croatia supported its candidacy, and invited Shin to visit Croatia as soon as possible.