Today when we, just as a majority of other nations, live in our independent and free state being obliged to our predecessors for it, we face, first of all, goals and challenges imposed by our time. At the first place it is necessary for Croatia to continue being developed as a country of democracy, and minority, religious and all other human rights and liberties, as a country of free entrepreneurship as well as a country of social justice, political freedoms and political stability, the head of state wrote in his message.
Having in mind the desired start of negotiations with the European Union, it is important for us to continue carrying out reforms in the state administration and the judiciary, Mesic said calling on citizens to strengthen their participation in public life.
He also called for intensified efforts to be invested into faster economic development, higher employment, and better living standards with the permanent care for the most vulnerable groups of society.
Croatian Prime Minister Ivo Sanader also on Thursday issued a message on the occasion of Statehood Day.
Sanader recalled that after the adoption of the 1991 declaration on independence, the country was faced with the war and the challenges of the defence of territorial integrity and freedoms of its citizens.
Paying tribute to all Croatian solders who ensured the free and independent Croatia thanks to their bravery, fortitude and commitment, Sanader added that today Croatia is a "recognised member of the international family" and a reliable partner to other states and nations.
The present-day Croatia ensures rights to all of its citizens, and being ready to face challenges of the future and adjusting its legislation and adopting European standards, Croatia, as a candidate for membership in the European Union, is about to achieve its goal, Sanader said, among other things.
Both President Mesic and PM Sanader commented on the completion of the construction of the Zagreb-Split Highway, describing it as the backbone of the connection of the country's north and south.
The central ceremony on the occasion of Statehood Day will be held in the eastern city of Vukovar on Saturday, 25 June. President Mesic, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, as well as Sabor Speaker Vladimir Seks and PM Sanader are expected at the ceremony at which army members will be promoted.