Croatian, Czech presidents vow closer economic cooperation

The excellent political relations between Croatia and the Czech Republic could reinforce cooperation in economic sector, presidents of two countries said after their meeting in Zagreb on Tuesday.

The Czech Republic was the 15th largest investor in Croatia and there was potential in many other sectors, Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic said, adding there was more room for cooperation in tourism, energy, the food industry.

"We also see great potential for the operation of our companies in the Czech Republic and their companies in Croatia," she added.

Zeman, who arrived in Zagreb for a two-day visit, said that his delegation included two representatives who were planning to build tourist resorts in Croatia.

Czechs also planned on investing in the banking and energy sectors in Croatia, he added.

The two leaders discussed "Three Seas" initiative suggested by Croatia and the Czech Republic's "Three Rivers" initiative and hope the initiatives could be combined to connect the Adriatic, Baltic and Black Seas.

Zeman said that the Czech Republic supported Euro-Atlantic expansion to the Western Balkans.

He expressed his opposition to the idea of a multi-speed Europe, stressing that Europe must remain united.

On Tuesday, Zeman also met with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, discussing the further economic cooperation between two countries. Endit