The Croatian government and people may rest assured of Malta's continued support for Croatia's bid to join the European Union and of Malta's willingness to share its experience from the accession process, President Eddie Fenech Adami said in Zagreb yesterday.

The president is on a state visit to Croatia.

"We are convinced that Croatia's EU integration aspirations contribute to stability in the region," Dr Fenech Adami added.

Speaking at dinner hosted by Croatian President Stjepan Mesic, Dr Fenech Adami said Malta and Croatia are two countries close to large markets and can both serve as gateways to neighbouring countries - Malta to North Africa and Southern Europe and Croatia to the south-eastern part of Europe.

President Mesic thanked Malta for recognising and supporting Croatia's EU membership bid, adding that Malta's firm support for Croatia's temporary seat in the Security Council was a contribution to Croatia's international recognition.

Croatia has followed the economic progress of Malta with attention and interest, Mr Mesic said.

The Croatian President said his country was particularly interested in sharing experience, investment and projects in tourism, shipbuilding and the financial sector. All this apart from promoting relations in culture, science and sports, and intensifying cooperation between universities.

"Both Croatia and Malta belong to the circle of so-called small countries within the Union. We are aware that a high degree of harmony in our positions on regional and global issues can greatly contribute to enhancing the quality of overall relations," Mr Mesic said.