Extending his congratulations on behalf of the government and his own, Sanader wrote: "I convey, Holy Father, our joy and confidence that with your enthusiasm and intellectual power you will successfully navigate St. Peter's boat in contemplating the reality of post-modern society, bringing the humankind the gift of faith.
"I am confident that the friendship, cooperation and mutual respect between the Holy See and the Republic of Croatia, between you as head of the Catholic Church and the Croatian people, will continue to the mutual benefit, and I, together with Croatian faithful, will follow you with prayers on your life path," Sanader said in the letter.