President Milanović in Gospić: The Croatian people finally gathered under one flag, idea and state
“Even though foreigners have ruled this territory throughout history, all these authorities eventually, through natural and emotional inertia, led to this region finally being part of the country it loves and wants to live in. These people were often politically misunderstood, suffered, but were always on the Croatian side. Croatian history was complicated, and the Croatian people, for a reason, went in different directions throughout history. I hope and believe that the Croatian people finally gathered under one flag, one cap, one idea, and one state – under Croatia,” said the President of the Republic Zoran Milanović, in Gospić, where he was staying on the occasion of Municipal Day celebrations.
In his address at the special session of the Gospić Town Council, President Milanović also spoke about European funds, noting that much of the construction is being financed through these funds. He emphasized two points: “First, make sure to use every euro, as we don’t know how long these funds will last. These are our euros. Second, there is no need to feel grateful because we have given a lot in return. We have ceded the right to manage certain instruments of our own development policy, and we did so of our own free will. No one should be blamed for this, nor should anyone feel any disdain or hatred towards anyone,” he said.
Furthermore, President Milanović stated that money ensures independence and power. “We have to take care of that ourselves, because all this renovation of facades or drainage systems will not make Croatia a country with deep pockets and complete financial independence,” he said.
“We must be aware of the times we live in. Times are difficult and complicated, and the world is unsafe. Here, we can speak openly without fear of snipers, unlike in other countries. We have to be happy with what we have,” added the President of the Republic, alluding to the recent assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Before the special session, President Milanović visited the Museum of Lika in Gospić, accompanied by the museum’s director, Tatjana Kolak.
In addition to President Milanović, speakers at the special session included Ana Marija Zdunić, President of the Gospić Town Council; Darko Milinović, Mayor of Gospić; Ernest Petry, Lika-Senj County Prefect and delegate of the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament; and Radovan Fuchs, Minister of Science and Education of the Republic of Croatia and delegate of the Prime Minister.
President Milanović was accompanied by Melita Mulić, Adviser to the President of the Republic for Human Rights and Civil Society.
PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Marko Beljan