At the ceremony in the Vatican, the pontiff told Croatian ambassador Filip Vucak that with the admission to the EU, Croatia would become part of an economic and judicial organisation which had its advantages as well as its limitations but Croatia would be able to give its typical contribution, according to ANSA.
The pope added that the Holy See was satisfied with the prospective admission of countries to the EU which historically belonged to the European family.
Ambassador Vucak said that Croatia's entry into the EU would be the result of "long and thorough negotiations whose success is achieved also thanks to the Holy See's steady support".
The pontiff said he was looking forward to his visit to Croatia on 4-5 June, which "will instill new enthusiasm among young Catholics and strengthen Croatian families".