Deputy PM Kosor meets UN high commissioner for refugees in Geneva

Kosor stressed that during the war the UNHCR played an important role, notably when it came to the support to women and children who make up nearly 80 percent of the total number of refugees. She said Croatia was prepared to support the return process, adding that even today the return of refugees remained one of the priorities of the Croatian government.

"A lot of effort is being invested so that the process can be completed next year," Kosor said, adding that Croatia expected to enter NATO in 2009 and wrap up negotiations on its joining the EU in the near future. She said the return process was also important for these reasons.

Kosor also tackled the issue of missing persons. Guterres said the UNHCR would continue to support the return process in Croatia if necessary.