Serbian investments and companies are welcome in Croatia, it was stated at the official opening of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce (PKS) Representative Office in Zagreb Wednesday.

The aim of the Office is to increase the presence of Serbian capital and companies on the Croatian market and improve the two countries' economic cooperation.

The economic cooperation between Serbia and Croatia is improving, but there is a lot of room and potential for its progress in all branches, and joint penetration of third markets.

Serbian Ambassador to Croatia Stanimir Vukicevic said that today's event is a step forward in cooperation between Serbia and Croatia, which should not only boil down to trade but should also include other forms of cooperation.

The opening of the PKS in Zagreb represents a historic moment and opens a new chapter in bilateral relations that the economic climate of the entire region depends on, Representative Office Director Drenislav Zekic.

Head of the Croatian Chamber of Commerce Nadan Vidosevic stressed that Croatia is open for Serbian investments, adding that the two countries are competitive and compatible.

One should not waste time with the past, but should rather turn to the future, he said, adding that the eastern Adriatic region should be a bridge between the EU and the rest of the world.

PKS President Milos Bugarin stressed it is possible to promote and develop several forms of economic cooperation, particularly in the metal industry, shipbuilding, and agricultural and food industry.

He stressed that the Serbia-Croatia exchange is almost balanced, noting that one should promote regional cooperation and encourage joint penetration of third markets.

Trade between the two countries stood at USD 933.6 million in 2011, 26.7 percent higher than in 2010.

Serbia's export to Croatia was at USD 466.4 million, rising by 52 percent compared to 2010, while import went up by 8.8 percent, reaching USD 467.2 million.

Croatia is Serbia's 9th biggest export and 12th biggest import partner.