President Milanović in Petrinja and Glina: Now Is the Opportunity to Give People Hope and Resources

The President of the Republic and Commander in Chief of the Croatian Armed Forces Zoran Milanović went to Petrinja and Glina today where he spoke to the residents and representatives of public services that are helping residents in the earthquake-stricken areas.

This morning in the barracks in Petrinja President Milanović extended New Year wishes to the members of the Croatian army and thanked them for everything they are doing for the residents of the earthquake-stricken areas. He then toured the site in Petrinja where humanitarian aid is being collected and sorted and in which members of the Croatian army are participating.

He held a working meeting with representatives of the National Civil Protection Authority, the Croatian Red Cross, the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service and the Croatian army. The meeting was attended by the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces Admiral Robert Hranj, Defence Minister Mario Banožić, Croatian Veterans Minister Tomo Medved and the Mayor of Petrinja Darinko Dumbović. He extended New Year wishes to members of all the services and thanked them for all their efforts in the past days in helping the people affected by the quake.

After Petrinja, in the community of Prekopa near Glina the President of the Republic participated in installing mobile homes and containers for three families whose homes have been destroyed in the quake.

“As far as I can see, I’m pleased with the coordination of services on the ground. Everything that can be done is being done. People are working selflessly, both those whose job it is and those who are doing so because of the culture of heart and love. Two days have passed since the earthquake, just a few more days and everything will be functioning. One can always do better, but things are being done well,” President Milanović told reporters.

When asked what the people were telling him, the President said: “People are scared and desperate, they’re afraid to sleep in their homes. It’s obvious it will take several weeks for things to settle down.” Speaking about his expectations of 2021, President Milanović said: “I’m cautious but was not afraid. I’m certain the resilience of our people will be a major factor. It will be a difficult year but I’m confident that it will be better than the last one.”

Asked how long the reconstruction of the earthquake-stricken area could last, he reminded that this area had been losing population to emigration and had suffered extensive damage in the Homeland war. “The damage is huge but it will be repaired. Millions of euros will come from the EU,” he said, adding that reconstruction should not be spontaneous but organized by the state.

“Now is the opportunity to rebuild what has been destroyed but also give hope and resources to the people. The Government must find a way to provide for the people who are temporarily housed in mobile homes or barracks,” President Milanović stated.

PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Filip Glas