"We put a lot of emphasis in the talks on a successful completion of Croatia's accession to the European Union. That's extremely important for Croatia, as well as for Slovenia as a neighbouring country and for Europe as a whole," Tuerk said after the informal talks.

The talks, like previous ones, have shown that relations between the two countries are constantly improving, he said, adding the meeting was held in the spirit of friendship and cooperation.

He said future meetings would be held in such a spirit as well, whereby the two presidents were doing a useful job.

Josipovic agreed with Tuerk that Croatia-Slovenia relations were improving. "The conclusion that the relations are better and better is mutual and I am sure that the friendship and the cooperation will continue."

Josipovic said that during his relatively brief presidential term, his most frequent meetings, both formal and informal, had been with Tuerk.

"We talked about Croatia's road to the European Union. I am grateful to President Tuerk and our friend Slovenia on the support and understanding they are showing regarding the problems we are faced with," said Josipovic, adding he was confident that Croatia would successfully complete the entry talks and join the EU.

He said the successful completion of the negotiations was important first and foremost for Croatia, but for Europe as well.

Josipovic said the useful meetings with Tuerk would continue.

The two presidents did not reveal other details about their talks. Before the meeting, it was announced that they could discuss the situation in the Mediterranean, relations in the region and outstanding bilateral issues.

According to unofficial reports, they could meet again in April during a meeting of Croatian and Slovenian business people.