Rijeka, (IKA) – Following a private meeting with Pope John Paul II at the archdiocesan seminary in Rijeka on Sunday, June 8, Croatian Premier Racan told journalists that he was impressed by the meeting, the Holy Father’s spiritual power and vitality evident in conversation, and his lively interest in Croatia and the regional situation. This is in line with his messages, that are of universal significance and therefore acceptable to many people of good will, regardless of their religious or political orientations. Premier Racan also thanked the Holy Father for coming to Croatia, noting the significance of this hundredth journey for the Pope outside of Italy and that it was the Pope’s decision to visit Croatia for a third time within a relatively short period. Traveling throughout Croatia for several days is nearly without precedent in comparison to the Pope’s other visits, explained Premier Racan, mentioning that he hoped that the Holy Father would visit several other parts of Croatia next time. The Croatian premier stated that we are especially grateful to the Holy Father for his support, especially during the struggle for the independence of our country. According to Premier Racan, the Pope’s support is exceptionally important to us today, when we are making great efforts to become full members of the European Union. His message and support in this direction are of great value to us, in Racan’s opinion. Although the Pope’s visit ends tomorrow, Premier Racan thanked all who found good ways to show much we appreciate the Holy Father and how much his support means to the people of this country. Premier Racan related that the Holy Father said that he was very satisfied with the visit. Premier Racan also thanked everyone who contributed to making this visit successful. Referring to the topics of their conversation, the premier said that this conversation was a continuation of their previous conversation in Rome, when the premier told the Holy Father that the definitive orientation of this country, regardless of who is in power, is to be part of democratic and European civilization, and Croatia was on that path. There was also mention of the changes in Croatia and the region during the last three years. Regarding the relations between the Church and State, according to Premier Racan, this was not mentioned because, as he said, these problems are being successfully resolved in dialogue between the Government and Church structures here in Croatia. In response to a question about the Pope’s assessment of the situation in Croatia, the premier answered that he saw joy on the Holy Father’s face when he spoke about his experiences Croatia.