Clegg in Zagreb as Croatia joins the EU

Fireworks in Zagreb as Croatia joins the EU
(picture courtesy of the Times)

The Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg is in Zagreb where he attended a dinner which was part of the celebrations to mark the accession of the Republic of Croatia to the European Union. Guests also included President of the European Commission José  Manuel Barroso and the President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy, and Prime Minister Tusk of Poland.

Speaking during the event the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "On behalf of the UK, I offer sincere congratulations to the people of the Republic of Croatia on the historic occasion of their accession to the European Union as its 28th Member State. The UK looks forward to working together with Croatia as partners in the EU, as we already do through our partnership in NATO.

Mr Clegg continued: "Croatia's EU membership offers both countries an unparalleled opportunity to forge stronger links. We look forward to expanding further our commercial and political relationship, both at the EU level and bilaterally.

Concluding Mr Clegg said: "Croatia's accession demonstrates clearly for her neighbours the transformative power of EU enlargement which, when matched with the political will and perseverance that the Croatian people have shown, can deliver impressive change and benefits. We look forward to working together with Croatia to help support the European perspectives of all of the countries of the western Balkans and for Turkey."