The two officials discussed all issues pertaining to bilateral relations as well as the situation in the region.
Biscevic told Hina the consultations on Croatian-Italian relations were very fruitful at a decisive moment for Croatia's admission to the EU. He said a positive assessment was given to Croatia's activities in stabilising the region and that it was agreed that Croatia and Italy would continue to work together on stabilising and Europeanising the Balkans.
Biscevic also held talks with the state secretary at the Italian Foreign Ministry, Roberto Antonione, who will arrive in Zagreb tomorrow for President Stjepan Mesic's inauguration.
The talks focused on the need to close issues stemming from the past so that they would no longer obstruct current affairs.
A joint statement about the talks issued by the Croatian Foreign and European Integration Ministry said the officials harmonised views on the intensification of bilateral contacts this year in order to "further advance good neighbourly relations, friendship and cooperation".
"Italy recognises Croatia's efforts to meet European standards and supports Zagreb's bid to join the European Union given the launching of negotiations on accession in line with criteria set by the European Union. Both sides consider the process of Euro-Atlantic integration of Southeast Europe the most effective means of achieving stability and prosperity in the region as a whole," read the statement.
The officials also agreed concrete methods of dealing with issues of mutual interest, the statement said, highlighting respect of the principle that agreements must be carried out. The officials also voiced hope that all outstanding bilateral issues would be closed and that the joint commission set up in 2002 would intensify its activity.
"Italy and Croatia see the Adriatic as their common heritage. They will advance cooperation in all fields, including through environmental protection, transport, trade and investment, tourism, maritime security and security measures at sea," the statement read.
The officials also agreed on setting up task forces to tackle specific issues, such as access to the real estate market, issues related to cemeteries, archives and the cultural heritage. The task forces would start meeting in the near future, the statement said.