Brussels, 03/01/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 3 January, Croatian Foreign Minister Vesna Pusic called on Croatian voters to support their country's membership of the European Union during the referendum to be held on 22 January. She explained that a decision must be taken at the referendum on whether Croatia belongs to Europe politically, while it is part of Europe geographically, historically and culturally.
The minister explained that the government hopes to give a clear and precise answer to all the questions and doubts expressed by citizens on the subject of the EU. It is extremely important, she said, to send out the clear message that accession will depend on what the citizens decide. If they say “yes”, then Croatia will be a part of the EU, but if they say “no”, the process will be brought to a halt, she said.
Vesna Pusic's statements to the press mark the official beginning of the campaign, with video clips and printed matter calling on citizens to support the future of Croatia in Europe. According to the most recent surveys, some 60% of Croatians support EU membership by their country, while 33% are opposed to membership. (CG/transl.jl)