"Fourteen years ago, on 8 October 1991, the Croatian Parliament, following the vision and belief of its citizens, adopted a historic decision to sever constitutional ties with the former state. In the turbulent times of the Homeland War, Croatian soldiers, demonstrating great sacrifice and courage and guided by the ideals of freedom, created the foundations of a state which decided to build its future on the values of democracy, respecting human and minority rights. Aware of their sacrifice, we are obliged to lead Croatia on the right path, making it a stable democracy for its citizens, where the rule of law and social equality come first," reads the message.
Recalling the post-war times of economic, legal and social reforms, Sanader said that Croatia had managed to win its place in the international community and prove that it deserved the status of an equal and reliable partner.
"Our commitment to the European idea and progress on that path were recognised and several days ago we were rewarded with the launching of talks on full (EU) membership. This has opened a new chapter which will be recorded in history as a time of progress and creation of new possibilities," the PM said in the message.