Recalling his three visits to Croatia and the hospitality of its citizens, the Pope wished Croatia success in its efforts to become an integral part of united Europe. He said that he shared concerns that a slow process of Croatia's admission to the European Union could be detrimental to democratic reforms not only in Croatia but also in other countries of South-East Europe.
The Pope said that the Croatian people had always aspired to justice and cooperation and that he appreciated concrete steps in facilitating the return of all refugees, especially those from Bosnia-Herzegovina.
At the end of the audience, the Pope invoked upon Croatia the heavenly protection of the Most Holy Virgin and Holy Joseph, the patron saint of Croatia.