Croatia has monetary stability and an independent central bank, ownership rights and rights acquired by investing capital are protected, the financial system has been liberalised, and free transfer of profits has been guaranteed, Mesic said.
He advocated implementing a policy focusing on direct investing through fresh investments in the manufacturing sector, the encouragement of export-oriented projects and the opening of new jobs. "We wish to stimulate the so-called industrial cooperation and the transfer of modern technology with international corporations."
Mesic said that in order to achieve that, he would advocate, together with the legislative and executive authorities, an effective enforcement of Croatian laws and their adjustment to European standards as well as dealing with the issue of land books with a view to settling ownership problems.
He announced the removal of administrative obstacles to the application of more flexible labour market mechanisms, and the development of market economy institutions. "These are all crucial prerequisites to attract higher foreign investments... and accelerate Croatia's economic progress."
Replying to queries from the participants in the round-table debate, the president said he was confident that if Croatia completed entry negotiations with the European Union by 2007, it could achieve its strategic goal and become a member in 2008. He said he believed Croatia was on the right path and that possible hurdles would not be insurmountable.
The round-table debate pooled many economy experts, business people and representatives of the executive and legislative authorities.