Ambassador Yparraguirre Presents Letters of Credentials

to President Josipović of Croatia

Ambassador Lourdes O. Yparraguirre, the new Philippine Ambassador to Croatia (non-resident), presented her credentials before H.E. President Ivo Josipović of Croatia on 17 December 2010.

President Josipović expressed interest in strengthening bilateral relations between the Philippines and Croatia, especially in trade and investments, and hoped that the Philippines could soon have a commercial presence in Croatia. President Josipović also stated that Croatia is focusing on fighting corruption, and is optimistic on becoming a member of the European Union soon.

Ambassador Yparraguirre informed President Josipović about the policies and priorities of the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III, as well as the upbeat forecasts concerning the Philippine economy. Ambassador Yparraguirre discussed the successful launch of the public-private partnership (PPP) projects, and the attention it has generated among international and local investors. Ambassador Yparraguirre and President Josipović talked about the focus of the Aquino administration to minimize the risk of doing business in the Philippines by ensuring that rules are fair, clear, and equally enforced.

Ambassador Yparraguirre also met with Ambassador Andrea Javor, Head of the Department of Asia and Oceania of the Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, and explored specific ways on further improving bilateral cooperation.