The event brought together 1,100 exhibitors from 11 countries, it was said at the opening at which Split Mayor Zeljko Kerum accused the government and politicians of doing nothing practical to revive the economy.

Josipovic said "unemployment and poverty are the key social and political issue today" and that, more than ever before, one must talk about unity and partnership, which was extremely important in times of crisis.

"Partnership between the government, local government, and the economy certainly includes the 370,000 jobless," he said.

He said that organising GAST when the economic and political scenes were dominated by crisis was a very worthy effort and a sign of optimism. "Today, when it is tough, we must first and foremost seek signs of optimism and look for the people who can and know how to kickstart the economy."

Josipovic said that tourism, hospitality and the linking of continental and coastal Croatia were strategic issues for the development of Croatian society.

GAST closes on Sunday. It is a fair of food, beverages, hotel and hospitality equipment, wines, coffee, furniture, and tourism. It also includes conferences and business meetings.