During the visit of the Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, Chancellor Angela Merkel pointed to the long-standing good bilateral relations between the two countries. "We can rightly call ourselves a close friend of the country," said Angela Merkel. She continued, "In 1991 we supported Croatia’s independence, in 2009 its accession to NATO and in 2013 its accession to the EU, and as we agreed today, we will also cooperate very closely during Croatia’s Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2020, especially in view of the fact that Germany will then take over the Presidency."

Good relations on economic and migration issues

Germany and Croatia have a great interest in stepping up economic cooperation. "We are a major investor, but I’m sure we can do still more," said the Chancellor.

On migration-related issues, said the Chancellor, Germany and Croatia also work well together. Croatia is not yet part of the Schengen Area, but with its security forces it is doing an excellent job in protecting the EU’s external border.

The Chancellor expressed understanding for Croatia’s wish to join the Schengen Area and the euro zone. She stated her support for this project. "Certain criteria must be met. Croatia has made very good progress along this road," said Angela Merkel.