Zagreb, (IKA) – On Wednesday, May 7, the new apostolic nuncio in the Republic of Croatia, Archbishop Mario Roberto Cassari, presented his credentials to the President of the Republic of Croatia, Stjepan Mesić. Nuncio Cassari emphasized that he is well acquainted with “the importance and reputation of this noble and dear nation” and expressed sincere gratitude for the hospitality he has already received. “I also guarantee my love for all the inhabitants of the Republic of Croatia,” said the new nuncio, noting that the world is well acquainted with Croatia, not only for its natural beauties, culture and tradition but, most of all, for the Christian presence that is rooted in the hearts and minds of this nation. Nuncio Cassari also emphasized the closeness of Pope Benedict XVI to the Croatian nation and expressed satisfaction with the excellent relations that exist between the Republic of Croatia and the Holy See at the beginning of his mandate as apostolic nuncio. “In this respect, I guarantee to Your Excellency that my ongoing duty will be to support and strengthen the climate of mutual respect and trust through sincere and constructive dialogue, and I am sure, Mr. President, that I can count on your help and on your kind understanding, as well as on the good intentions and help of all people of good will, regardless of their religious and political affiliations,” said the nuncio.

He pointed out that the large and beautiful Catholic community of this country will continue to perform the role entrusted to it by its Founder, Jesus Christ, which consists of serving all — individuals and communities. It will avoid any interest whatsoever that could be contrary to its religious and moral calling. It will have compassion for all, especially the poorest. The Catholic Church in Croatia, under the leadership of its excellent pastors, cardinal, archbishop and bishops, with its worthy priests, religious, nuns and the many faithful, will continue its sincere and devoted cooperation in the light of the teachings of the Gospels, the Pope and the social doctrine of the Church, with the goal of the full develop of each individual person as well as furthering increasingly profound and authentic social, cultural, spiritual and moral values, in which the Croatian nation can serve as an example. At the end of his address, Nuncio Cassari expressed the desire for Croatia to become integrated in the European Union as soon as possible, because it is fully worthy.

On Tuesday, May 6, Nuncio Cassari received the minister of foreign affairs and European integration, Gordan Jandroković. On that occasion, the nuncio presented him with a copy of his credentials. Minister Jandroković, in welcoming the newly appointed apostolic nuncio, emphasized the excellent relations between the Holy See and the Republic of Croatia, and expressed his gratitude for the support that the Holy See has provided to the Republic of Croatia in the process of the negotiations for full membership in the European Union. Nuncio Cassari said that he was pleased to be serving in the Republic of Croatia as a priest and diplomat, emphasizing that he will be at the disposal of all citizens.