The four MEP are members of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament.
The press release issued by the government said that Plenković had spoken via video link and underscored that the purpose of the visit by the Italian MEPs was to cause an incident and undermine Croatia’s international reputation by disrespecting its laws and institutions.
Croatia sent a message to the MEPs through diplomatic channels saying that they cannot of their own free will cross the border where that is not permitted and directed them to the official border crossing, however, they ignored that.
Plenković expects that that type of provocation will not be repeated.
Last Sunday, Interior Minister Davor Božinović said that the visit by the Italian MEPs was yet another in a series of provocations against Croatia’s police.
Plenković informed Sassoli of the efforts of Croatia and its law enforcement authorities to protect the country’s borders and prevent illegal entry. He also notified the EP president of Croatia’s final preparations to access the Schengen Area.
During the video conference, it was mutually confirmed that the visit by the Italian MEPs was of a private nature and that it was in no way organised or approved by the European Parliament.
Croatia’s role in protecting and managing the European Union’s external border was especially highlighted.
Sassoli expressed his support to Croatia’s bid to enter the Schengen Area and said he would like to see the continuation of excellent cooperation between the European Parliament and Croatia, which Plenković also confirmed, the press release said.
