MESIC: UNITED EUROPE IS CROATIA'S STRATEGIC GOAL

ZAGREB, May 8 (Hina) - On the occasion of the marking of the Day of Europe and victory over fascism in World War Two, May 9, Croatian President Stipe Mesic on Tuesday said "a united Europe was Croatia's strategic goal. Mesic said that "participating in the anti-fascist struggle enabled Croatia to, as a part of the former Yugoslavia, be in the group of winning countries at the end of World War Two", Mesic pointed to the significance of the anti-fascist struggle in Croatia and its impact on the Croatia's international recognition. On its path to a united Europe, Croatia must build democratic world standards and make steps in its transformation in "a democratic, rule-of-law and social country", Mesic said in a statement. One of the indicators of Croatia's true devotion to democracy values is and will be our attitude towards neo-fascism. By correcting not only negligence, but also crucial elements of the politics conducted over the past decade, we must show determination and prevent all forms of fascism, Mesic said in the statement. Every attempt of flirting with nazi-fascism, which includes the open promotion of national and religious hatred and intolerance would set us back and seriously jeopardise our joining Europe. Mesic stressed. On the other hand, if we want a prosperous 21st century future, Europe is not only a wish, but destiny. The marking of May 9 is a good opportunity to remember both, the President said in the statement. (hina) it sb