President Ivo Josipovic said on Sunday evening that the outcome of Croatia's referendum on accession to the European Union meant "a big 'yes' to Europe" and that it definitely defined Croatia as a European country with a European future.
Today has been a great day for Croatia, in terms of its importance and in terms of the result (of the referendum), Josipovic said in the parliament where he, Parliament Speaker Boris Sprem and Prime Minister Zoran Milanovic were toasting the early results of the referendum showing that two thirds of Croatian voters who went to the polls were in favour of the country's entry into the European bloc.
Croatia has opted for Europe, a community of European democracies aspiring for prosperity, said Josipovic
Thanking all who went to the polls in the referendum, Josipovic also thanked those who voted against, adding that the authorities should take into account the opinions, fears and dilemmas of those voters, too.
PM Milanovic said that today's decision was a historic one which the Croatians had made on their own.
As of today, we are definitely responsible for our decisions, we are responsible for our successes and failures, the premier said.
Parliament Speaker Sprem said the outcome ushered in "a new day, a new chapter and a better and happier life".
Croatia is here with broader horizons and greater opportunities, he said.
