After the official opening of the presidential office in the biggest Croatian seaport, Grabar-Kitarovic praised Rijeka for its development as a major Croatian coastal, maritime, cultural, economic and scientific centre.
She wished Rijeka success in enhancing its visibility as part of the European Capital of Culture 2020 project, in which Rijeka will be one of the two European capitals of culture that year.
In her comment on the adjacent mountainous region of Gorski Kotar, Grabar-Kitarovic expressed concern at depopulation trends in the region, which she said is rich in natural resources and can boast of diligent people.
She said she would continue supporting the even development of Croatia and decentralisation and that during her stay in Rijeka she would focus on Gorski Kotar.
Welcoming the head of state, Mayor Vojko Obersnel said that the urban development of Rijeka was based on European values.
Currently, one of the greatest challenges for this third largest Croatian city are preparations for the European Capital of Culture 2020 project, he said.