CROATIA, ICMPD SIGN DECLARATION OF INTENT

ZAGREB, Aug 29 (Hina) - Croatian Foreign Minister Tonino Picula and the director general of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Jonas Widgren, signed a declaration of intent in Zagreb on Friday. The declaration will assist Croatia in advancing its capacities for efficient border and migration system management, as well as in preparations for joining the Schengen system. #L# The ICMPD is an international organisation seated in Vienna, which deals with analyses of migration courses in Europe, the promotion of comprehensive and sustainable migration policies and the exchange of experts with the aim of providing expert assistance to state institutions regarding migration issues. The signed declaration, among other things, confirms the strengthening of cooperation in the exchange of information on border control and illegal migrations, as well as the Croatian foreign ministry's right to a seat in the ICMPD management group. By participating in the work of the ICMPD, Croatia will be provided with an additional forum for promoting its national interests and status in areas of the judiciary and internal affairs as a partner country. Picula voiced satisfaction with the signed declaration and stressed that Croatia was aware of the political, economic, social and cultural importance of migrations. Croatia will proactively participate in migration issues, which is an important subject in the European Union, Picula said, voicing hope that the ICMPD's support would be useful in negotiations for Croatia's joining the EU. The foreign minister also announced that Croatia would soon initiate proceedings for gaining full membership in the ICMPD, in which it has had an observer status since 1999. Widgren said the organisation had good relations with the EU and was able and willing to help Croatia in its efforts to join the EU. (hina) lml