The prime ministers of Slovenia and Croatia have announced progress in summit talks that could pave the way for Croatia to enter the European Union.

Croatian Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor and her Slovenian counterpart Borut Pahor met in northern Croatia in attempt to resolve a dispute over territorial waters which is holding up Croatia’s EU membership application. “I am very content,” said Croatian Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor, “and I think we have started to seek solutions in the interest of both sides, Croatia and Slovenia. “ “I think we have paved the way that gives us enough hope that we can by the end of the year find a solution to both questions,” said her Slovenian counterpart Borut Paho. “Resumption of Croatia’s EU talks and the border dispute.” Slovenia wants a corridor of direct access to international water from its northern Adriatic coast – the narrowness of the passage means that at present vessels travelling to Slovenia have to pass through Croatian waters. Croatia has always refused to accept Slovenia’s claim in a dispute which dates back to the break up of the former Yugoslavia, but may now be ready to make concessions in return for a green light on EU entry.More about: Croatia, Slovenia

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