Josipovic told reporters cooperation with the government would be even better because the government and he were aware that there was a lot of serious work ahead.

"I want us to discuss the EU, relations with neighbours, property that should be left to local self-government units, human rights, the economic crisis and all matters which are our shared responsibility, as well as general issues, as this is a time when Croatia needs a national consensus on the most important things," Josipovic said, voicing hope that the government and he would contribute to that.

Commenting on yesterday's decision of the Croatian Bar Association not to sue him for slander, Josipovic said that was a sensible decision. "I think that mutual criticism is a good catalyst. I'm sure that I will cooperate well also with attorneys."

Asked if he would help former inmates of the Stajicevo camp in Serbia to set up a memorial plaque there after two years of failed attempts due to opposition from local nationalists, Josipovic said this and many other problems could be resolved only if relations warmed up.

"That's why I insist that the creation of good relations be part of our policy, while acknowledging all historical facts. That will enable good relations with neighbours, strengthen our security and resolve the many humanitarian issues such as this one, such as shedding light on the fate of missing persons (from the war), property restitution and the return of people to their (prewar) homes."

Asked by the press if he had cleared things up with HDZ vice president Vladimir Seks after a recent exchange of harsh words via the media, Josipovic said, "That wasn't a quarrel but democratic dialogue".