FM delivers lecture at National University of Public Service

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman 12 December 2019 in Budapest delivered a lecture at the National University of Public Service

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman 12 December 2019 in Budapest delivered a lecture at the National University of Public Service for representatives of diplomatic corps, academic community and a number of other guests. Speaking about Croatia’s upcoming EU presidency, Grlić Radman underscored that Croatia was the youngest member state: “As a country of only four million people, we are well aware that even the largest member states see the EU presidency as a daunting task. However, we are looking forward to giving our best and readily accept the challenge.”

The minister reflected on Croatia’s often turbulent past, saying we served as a bridge between east and west, north and south. “Because of our experience and what we’ve learned from the past, we intend to continue to bridge differences and seek flexible, creative and even-handed solutions within the EU. Croatia is a firm believer in the European project and it is our joint responsibility to continue promoting the legacy and instil in the next generation of young Europeans a sense of importance of preserving our heritage,” he said.

Despite our occasional differences and well aware of the uniqueness of our identities, Grlić Radman said, we should use the opportunity to get closer to each other and take that bold step to achieve a promising future for the EU. “In order to attain this, we need to build trust among the member states, strengthen mutual understanding and deepen our relations within the EU, so as to ensure the welfare of our community of nations and our citizens,” he concluded.

 

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