Even though the number of jobless people and those who are not paid for their work is still high, we celebrate this May Day with optimism and with stabilised economic indicators, Kosor says in the message.

"Nothing can be changed overnight, but we have managed to reverse negative trends by consistently implementing the economic recovery programme and with a lot of work and persistence," she said, recalling that the crisis tax had been abolished, state spending and illiquidity in state-owned companies reduced, and that investments were being launched and jobs created by removing administrative obstacles to investment.

She added that conditions had been created for the shipbuilding industry to continue being an important generator of economic development once Croatia joined the EU.

"In implementing reforms, which are necessary for the prosperity of Croatian citizens, we have been encountering a lot of resistance. Nothing is easy and simple. The many challenges require more sacrifice, but with mutual trust and faith in oneself and one's own potential, success is certain," Kosor said in the message.

A May Day message was also issued by Parliament Speaker Luka Bebic.