On the occasion of the Croatian Army's 30th anniversary, high NATO and EU representatives have sent congratulations, once again confirming the outstanding contribution of the Croatian armed forces to the preservation of world peace and security, the Defence Ministry said on Thursday.

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, said in a note that in the past 30 years Croatia had made a huge contribution to the preservation of world peace and security, adding that the EU would remain open to the further development of the Croatian Army’s capabilities.

The Croatian Army has also played a key role during the pandemic by assisting civilian institutions in all areas as well as by supporting medical teams and health workers, he added.

Sir Stuart Peach, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, said the Croatian Army’s birthday was a symbol of the Croatian state’s freedom and independence, and recalled the courage of all those who lost their lives in the struggle for independence.

In the past 30 years, the Croatian Army has grown into a modern army with a high international reputation. Both within and outside your borders, you have become a symbol of freedom and prosperity, he said in a note.

The Chief of the UK General Staff, General Sir Nicholas Carter, said it was an honour to congratulate the Croatian Army on its 30th anniversary and that he was looking forward to further cooperating with Croatian troops.

It has been impressive to watch in various international exercises how Croatian soldiers deal with different challenges, he added.