Croatia celebrates EU entry

Croatia held a large ceremony at a downtown square in its capital city Zagreb on Sunday night, marking its entry into the European Union (EU).         

A total of 15 heads of states and governments from the EU and neighboring counties attended the ceremony, including Jose Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission, Martin Schulz, president of the European Parliament, and Herman Van Rompuy, president of the European Council.             

Croatian Prime Minister Zoran Milanovic said at the ceremony that, in entering the EU, Croatia will take on new responsibilities and continue to enhance its cooperation with other countries in the Balkan region, while encouraging them to join the EU.                                

During his speech, Barroso expressed his congratulations to the country in Croatian, and added that the entry is not only a milestone for Croatia, but also the starting point for the country's future success.                       

"Dear friends, we are here on an historic night and that is thanks to you, Croatian people. Because 1/8of 3/8 your desire to join the European Union and your hard work which has made this possible. Dear friends, welcome to the European Union," said Barroso.                          

Nearly 700 artists performed at Sunday night's ceremony, presenting an abundance Croatia's cultural heritage in music, literature, science and technology.                    

"I'm really proud about this moment as a person and I feel warm in my heart because of this," said a male resident.                            

"It's a special moment for Croatia. I'm so happy that I'm here tonight to participate and witness all this. I hope tomorrow will be even better," said a female resident.        

Croatia became the 28th EU member, effective from Monday, and marks the EU's first addition since Bulgaria and Romania joined in in 2007.


AP