by croatiaweek
August 15, 2025
in
(Photo: Office of the President of Croatia / Dario Andrišek)
President Zoran Milanović has called for caution as Europe enters a period of uncertainty, saying Croatia must protect its interests and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
The President was speaking in Jelsa on Hvar on Thursday evening at a special session of the Municipal Council to mark the Day of the Municipality and the Feast of the Assumption.
“Uncertain years are ahead for Europe and for Croatia. We must stay where we know we are safe and not be adventurists. There is always time for adventure, but for individuals. States and their leaders cannot afford it,” Milanović said.
He noted that the European Union is weaker than other global powers, lacking major natural resources and technological dominance.
(Photo: Office of the President of Croatia / Dario Andrišek)
“In this world we must be loyal, polite and cooperative, but we must look after our own interests. In the end, only we care about Croatia – and about Jelsa,” he added.
Milanović described Jelsa as one of Croatia’s wealthier communities but encouraged further growth and independence.
“Without strong finances there is no independence. We must know what we want as a nation, what we do not want to be involved in, and have clear goals and methods to achieve them,” he said.
(Photo: Office of the President of Croatia / Dario Andrišek)
On EU funding, the President warned that the current favourable conditions will not last forever. “Those who distribute the money are careful not to finance future competition. This is the platinum age of EU funds and Croatia joined at the best possible time. But it will end, and what comes after is uncertain,” he said.
Also addressing the session were Municipal Council President Jure Gurdulić, Mayor Marija Marjan, and MP Krunoslav Katičić on behalf of the Prime Minister.
(Photo: Office of the President of Croatia / Dario Andrišek)
The President was accompanied by his adviser for education, Jadranka Žarković, and commissioner for sport, Tomislav Paškvalin.