President Milanović in Čazma: Let the Parade Be a Reminder That Croatia Won Its Victory on Its Own

The President of the Republic Zoran Milanović attended today’s ceremonial session of the Čazma Municipal Council, held on the occasion of Čazma Municipal Day and the feast of St. Mary Magdalene.

In his address, President Milanović called for the maximum use of European Union funds. “EU money is there to be spent, and whatever is not used is a loss,” he stressed, adding: “Every euro offered by the EU should be used because tomorrow it might no longer be available.” As an example of good practice, he cited the Bjelovar spa project, calling it “an excellent initiative, as under normal circumstances it is not the kind of project that should be financed by the state.”

Speaking about the challenges facing the European Union, the President underlined that the energy sector and high technologies are areas in which the EU “must strengthen its competitiveness.” However, he reminded those present that his primary responsibility is “to answer to the citizens of Croatia and the Constitution of the Republic of Croatia.”

President Milanović also commented on the upcoming military parade in Zagreb, emphasizing that it is an opportunity to recall the truth about Croatia’s struggle for independence. “When, in a few days, at the military parade in Zagreb, alongside Croatian soldiers and Croatian equipment, soldiers from NATO countries march as well, we must remember that our victory—the victory won in our name—was achieved by those who fought for us, and no one else but we ourselves.” He warned against attempts to diminish Croatia’s role in its own defense and statehood, stressing that “others were merely passive supporters and, very often, an active obstacle.”

“The victory is solely Croatia’s and no one else’s; no one else contributed to it, and we owe nothing to anyone,” President Milanović declared. He emphasized the importance of maintaining awareness of Croatia’s own history, independence, and pride in the achievements of its citizens and defenders. He added that he does not intend to impose this awareness on others, but for him, it remains essential and unquestionable.

In conclusion, President Milanović highlighted the need for Croatia to strengthen its independence, including financial independence, as this was—he said—the fundamental goal of the struggle for the Croatian state: “It is important that something tangible remains—a monument, something beautiful and useful—if it cannot be invested directly in things that guarantee Croatia money, prosperity, and independence from others and from foreign funds. That was what Croatia fought for.”

Apart from President Milanović, speakers at the ceremonial session included Slavko Grgić, Mayor of the Town of Otok; Silvestar Štefović, President of the County Assembly of Bjelovar-Bilogora County; Darijo Hrebak, Mayor of Bjelovar; and Marko Marušić, Bjelovar-Bilogora County Prefect and delegate of the Speaker of Parliament and the Government.

President Milanović was accompanied by his Adviser for Human Rights and Civil Society, Melita Mulić.

PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Marko Beljan