Plenković and Metsola on strengthening European economy, investments in defense and support for Ukraine

They also referred to yesterday's meeting in Paris on peace and security in Ukraine, Prime Minister Plenković reported in a statement to the media.
 
In this context, he stressed, an important segment is the further development of European defense and defense capabilities of member states, especially relying on the White Paper published by the European Commission on the eve of the last European Council meeting.
 
They also discussed preparations for the new Multiannual Financial Framework and the structure of the new European budget and its priorities.
 
At the same time, he stressed, cohesion and agricultural policies are very important for Croatia, but also strengthening capabilities in preventing illegal migration, as well as investing in defense.
 
He recalled that Croatia has already exceeded the NATO pledge of two percent of GDP in defense investments, and of that, as much as 30 percent goes to modernizing the army.
 
They also discussed the situation in Croatia's neighborhood, especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Prime Minister said that these countries are expected to meet the criteria and be committed to European values, and Croatia is ready to help them with its experiences.
 
Metsola: Croatia's unwavering commitment to Europe is an inspiration for joint action in the future
 
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola stressed that she sees an unwavering commitment to Europe in Croatia.
 
We will need more of that in the future, she added, because the world will not wait - either we step forward together or we all risk falling behind.
 
Regarding the increased external threats, she said, we need a strong Europe and therefore we need to take responsibility for our own security.
 
Given its history, she emphasized, Croatia very much understands the value of peace, stability and the responsibility needed to preserve these values.
 
Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that Ukraine has the support it needs, because this remains the best investment in European security, she added.
 
Regarding the next European budget, the European Parliament President believes that the funds must follow strategic goals. We need, she added, to focus on priorities that are truly important to the citizens.
 
Croatia's story is a story of the success of European integration, from joining the European Union to entering the euro and Schengen, she said. Croatia showed how membership in the European Union can bring stability and prosperity to the citizens, she added, highlighting Croatia's continued economic growth.
 
Only a resilient economy can guarantee a Europe that stands behind its citizens and values ​​on the global stage, which means that Europe must be simpler, more focused and more competitive.
 
In this context, she highlighted energy connectivity in order to lower costs for the economy and citizens, particularly welcoming Croatia's efforts to become a key regional energy hub.
 
Furthermore, it is necessary to integrate financial markets and work on trade agreements and simplify processes.
 
We will work on this in the months and years to come, and I have no doubt that we can count on Croatia's determination and unwavering commitment to all these European Union goals, she said.