17/05/2013 (Agence Europe) - Ashton hails Zagreb's accession efforts. On 16 May, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton hailed Croatia's effort and work which will result in it joining the EU on 1 July 2013, and she congratulated the Croatian people. At the end of a meeting in Zagreb with Croatia's President Ivo Josipovic, Ashton underlined the importance, not only for the Croatian nation but also for the region, of Croatia's accession to the European Union. Croatia has made a step, which Ashton said she hoped other countries in the region will also make as she hopes they will also become members of the EU. Josipovic said that Zagreb would try to bring political and technical support to its neighbours for them to be able to join the EU as quickly as possible. (CG/transl.fl)