According to the statement, the City of Banja Luka allocated the premises to the HKC free of charge for the purpose of fostering the culture and traditions of the Croatian people.
The authorities, however, said that for some time now the Centre has been used inappropriately, citing cases of alcoholic drinks being served until late at night and frequent breaches of the peace.
"Because of the role and importance of the Centre, (the City of Banja Luka has decided) not to terminate the contract with the HKC but to close it temporarily," the statement said.
The decision was preceded by a meeting between city officials and representatives of the Croatian community following "several unsuccessful attempts to resolve the many problems that have existed in the HKC for a long time."
It was agreed that the Croatian representatives would convene all Croatian cultural organisations in Banja Luka to resolve the HKC's problems.