"If after so many wars in their history the Germans and the French could open borders and cooperate, and now even lead the way in democracy and European integration, then we, who have never been at war in this region, can do it too. We were never at war with Montenegro," Mesic told the press after meeting Montenegrin Foreign Minister Miodrag Vlahovic in Zagreb on Saturday.
Mesic said Croatia had never been at war with Serbia either, "except for the last war, which was caused by (Slobodan) Milosevic," which he added "we must get over with. Guilt needs to be individualised, collective accusations have to stop so we can start cooperating in the region".
Although today's talks did not address the signing of the European Constitution, Mesic said it represented a big step forward in the European integration process.
"The Southeast of Europe will certainly end up in the integrated Europe, which not only integrates all of its potentials but also excludes war as a political means, because in such Europe motives for conquering foreign territories will simply disappear," said Mesic.
Minister Vlahovic, who arrived in Zagreb for the launch of his book but is due back for an official visit on Monday, told reporters his talks with Mesic focused on the situation in the region, particularly the advancement of Croatian-Montenegrin relations.
Mesic said Croatia and Montenegro were Mediterranean countries which had a lot in common and should "resolve issues concerning the Adriatic and its protection". "Eventually, we have to open borders and cooperate, build tourist destinations for the whole Europe because this is in the interests of both Montenegro and us."
Asked if Montenegro would seek Croatia's support for gaining independence, Vlahovic said Montenegro would firstly rely on itself.
"We don't seek anyone's support, but we expect our neighbours and proven friends, and Croatia is among the biggest, to become better acquainted with the situation so that in diplomatic communication with the EU and the US they can explain the depth and nuances of Montenegro's communication problems with Serbia, because that might help in having Brussels and Washington take a more realistic position on Montenegro's legitimate demand," said Vlahovic.
The press asked Mesic if in his capacity as head of state he reacted after the United States confirmed that a Croatian truck driver, Damir Mikulic, was detained in the U.S. camp for foreigners in Iraq.
"We still don't have any official proof based on which we could officially react, but after we receive the first information, we will do everything that is necessary to protect the interests of our citizen," Mesic said.