Christmas Greetings from the President of the Republic of Croatia Zoran Milanović

Dear fellow citizens,

Merry Christmas to all of you in Croatia and to our compatriots abroad, especially those in the neighbouring states of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia!

It is not by chance that in Christian tradition Christmas is considered the most joyous holiday. So it is in the European community of states and nations to which we belong, and so it is in Croatia. It is the most joyous because it is a family holiday and one of togetherness, a time of goodness and of solidarity among people. My sincere wish is for all Christian worshipers and all our citizens to celebrate Christmas in dignity and in accordance with tradition, as it has always been: in peace and joy, surrounded by family and friends, with our loved ones.

I am aware that we are living in challenging, strange times that impose new rules, even restrictions. Unfortunately, we see that there is a lack of understanding in society for nuances, therefore everything is presented to us in black and white.

I am confident that these predicaments, these exclusive views on problems in society can only be overcome by responsible and especially reasonable behaviour, behaviour that will respect and accept differences of opinion. We must have understanding for others, for those who think different, and we must respect one another.

I call upon those responsible, especially those who decide, to appreciate in the Christmas spirit the different views as a contribution to the search for solutions, and not as a problem. After all Christmas is a holiday appealing for tolerance among people.

I use this opportunity to invite all our citizens to care for their loved ones. In the time we are living, vaccination is real proof of concern both for ourselves and our loved ones. Get vaccinated! Demonstrate by your actions the greatest Christmas value – hope and faith in the victory of good.

Once again I wish all Christian worshipers Merry Christmas and peaceful and joyous holidays to everyone in Croatia!

Merry Christmas and above all a healthy New Year!