Schroeder was awarded the decoration on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of Croatia's independence. The ceremony was also attended by Prime Minister Ivo Sanader.
Years had passed before we could truly turn to ourselves and gradually realise our dream of joining Europe on the path of freedom and democracy. Democratic development, the rule of law and the market economy have become our priorities, and we have made substantial progress on that path thanks to the friendly support of your country and you personally, Mesic said addressing his guest.
Schroeder thanked Mesic for the award, saying it was a great privilege. He said that Croatia had made particularly great progress this decade, noting that it was largely the result of President Mesic's wise leadership.
Croatia's achievements are also the result of the efforts of a good friend of mine, former Prime Minister Ivica Racan, whose personal destiny is affecting me, and the efforts of Prime Minister Ivo Sanader, he added.
During his day-long visit to Croatia, Schroeder also met Zeljka Antunovic, the acting president of the strongest opposition party, the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
As a true Social Democrat, Schroeder supports the SDP and is optimistic about the SDP winning the forthcoming election in Croatia, due in November, Antunovic told reporters after the meeting.