ZAGREB, April 28 (Hina) - In May new Croatian authorities will carry out most of changes in Croatian embassies and consulates and new Croatian diplomats will be chosen according to both political and professional criteria, Foreign
Minister Tonino Picula told a news conference in Zagreb on Friday. Picula added that at the moment there was no agreement on who of ambassadors and consuls would be relieved and who would replace them. "I believe that in May a great part of the agreement will be reached and first changes are likely to happen in June or perhaps after summer holidays," Picula told reporters. During the selection of diplomats both politics and skilfulness will be equally taken into consideration, Picula answered when a reporter asked him whether the new leadership would respect criteria of political loyalty or professionalism in appointment of diplomats. The For
ZAGREB, April 28 (Hina) - In May new Croatian authorities will carry
out most of changes in Croatian embassies and consulates and new
Croatian diplomats will be chosen according to both political and
professional criteria, Foreign Minister Tonino Picula told a news
conference in Zagreb on Friday.
Picula added that at the moment there was no agreement on who of
ambassadors and consuls would be relieved and who would replace
them.
"I believe that in May a great part of the agreement will be reached
and first changes are likely to happen in June or perhaps after
summer holidays," Picula told reporters.
During the selection of diplomats both politics and skilfulness
will be equally taken into consideration, Picula answered when a
reporter asked him whether the new leadership would respect
criteria of political loyalty or professionalism in appointment of
diplomats.
The Foreign Ministry will propose candidates, the Government then
should confirm the candidacy and finally the President of the
Republic should approve it by his signature. A list of diplomats
must be drafted by consensus of all who decide on the matter, Picula
explained.
Picula reiterated that the foreign ministry would undergo changes
as well. Several days ago the Government adopted a decree on the re-
organisation of this ministry. Changes will lead to the
comprehensive monitoring, at one section, of Croatia's relations
with individual states and international organisations. They will
also strengthen Croatian economic activities through diplomacy.
The Ministry envisages the reduction of its diplomatic and consular
net. Therefore, a procedure has been launched for the closing of 10
Croatian consulates in the world by the end of this year.
Picula told the news conference that there had been drastic cases on
abuse of office and embezzlement in the Croatian diplomacy. He
announced the ministry would adopt rules on the usage of money of
tax payers.
(hina) jn ms