President Milanović: Every EU state must look after its own Interests
The President of the Republic Zoran Milanović attended today a special session of the Municipal Council of Vižinada on the occasion of Municipality Day and the feast of Saint Jerome.
In his address, President Milanović highlighted the specifics of Istria in the context of demographic challenges and the development of the region, and emphasized its importance as a success story and an example of progress within the Republic of Croatia.
Speaking about demographic changes, President Milanović emphasized that Istria experienced an unusual demographic development during the 20th century, where the population decreased, but the region simultaneously developed into one of the most advanced in Croatia. “Istria is a kind of antithesis in discussions about demography. In spite of the fact that the population was two times smaller than in the 19th century, Istria is extremely developed today. This example encourages us to think about what key resources are needed for the progress and development of regions”, he pointed out.
He also praised Istria as a region that can boast of high development and quality of life. He underlined the importance of preserving resources and sustainable development, pointing out that too much population pressure could adversely affect the current situation in Istria. “Istria is very successful as it is, and I think that many people in Croatia could learn from it, of course, if they want to,” he added.
The President of the Republic noted that the success of Istria leads the region to the point that, according to the rules of the European Union, it becomes the one that must help others, less developed ones. “You found yourself in a situation where you crossed the threshold of development that the European Union sets, and now, according to these EU rules, you have to help others. The European Union is designed so that the rich help the weak, but the power relations between the bigger and the smaller must be maintained,” he said, stressing that it is crucial that Croatia fight for its position and financial resources within that framework.
President Milanović warned that, although the European Union is a community that advocates solidarity, ultimately each country must look after its own interests. “This is the Croatian state, our homeland. Croatia is also the homeland of others who are not Croats, such as Italians, Serbs and others, but all key decisions that will be relevant or decisive tomorrow will be made here, in Croatia, in Istria, in Zagreb and in other parts of Croatia,” he underlined.
Ahead of the ceremony, President Milanović visited the Sonda Creative Centre and met with winemakers of the “Istra Origin” Association.
Speaking at the ceremony in addition to President Milanović were the president of the Municipal Council of Vižinada Oliver Arman, the head of the Municipality of Vižinada Marko Ferenac, Istria County-prefect Boris Miletić and MP Sanja Radolović.
Accompanying President Milanović was the Adviser to the President for Human Rights and Civil Society Melita Mulić.
PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Dario Andrišek