After thanking for the declaration, the head of state commented on the current situation in Croatia. With regard to the forthcoming opening of the membership talks with the European Union, he said that it was necessary to form negotiating teams very soon and that the teams must consist of experts.
Stating that the efficiency of Croatian negotiators would have an impact on the country's future, Mesic added that Zagreb should ask help from friendly countries that already negotiated EU membership.
After the ceremony at which he was given the freedom of the city, Mesic met groups of elderly citizens and children in Pozega.