Speaking to the press in the northern Adriatic city of Pula on Sunday, Benasic said Sanader had wasted that chance and failed to make his ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) a model to others in Croatia.
Benasic said he was very concerned about Croatia's economic situation. He urged the Government to launch the process of decentralisation and stimulate a much more balanced development of all parts of Croatia.
Speaking of the Coalition Istria agreement signed in Pula today, Benasic said the signing of such an agreement was an event of paramount importance for Istria County as well as the entire Croatia. The agreement was signed by the leaders of the county branches of the People's Party (HNS), the Liberal Party (LS), the Social Liberals (HSLS), the Peasant Party (HSS), and the Green Democratic Alliance (DSZ).
Benasic dismissed the possibility of any cooperation with the HDZ, saying the right wing had recently done many bad things to be acceptable for the LS.
Speaking of a possible coalition with the HNS and Libra, he said that presently this option was not realistic.