"I have always been a realist, and this time I am a positive one. I believe the negotiations will start on March 17," Sanader said after a meeting with the leaders of parliamentary parties.
He announced he would continue with his diplomatic activities in view of assuring EU member countries that Croatia is doing everything to close the last outstanding issue, that of fugitive General Ante Gotovina, who is wanted by the Hague war crimes tribunal.
Ivica Racan, the leader of the strongest opposition party, the Social Democrats, said he too was optimistic.
"I continue to be an optimist, but we should see what more to do so that in March this optimism is backed by facts," he said, adding it would be in the national interest if the EU entry negotiations began on March 17 as envisaged.
Racan said Croatia should not be penalised if it was doing everything but could not solve one problem.
Sanader said Croatia had an answer even if the entry talks did not start in March.
"Every responsible government must consider every aspect and Croatia has an answer to that," the PM said in reply to the question if his cabinet had a backup plan.
"I'd rather not speculate on that at this moment. I believe the negotiations will begin on March 17," Sanader said.