Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic on Thursday sent citizens a New Year's message, saying 2020 was a turbulent and demanding year in which Croats faced unprecedented challenges and showed solidarity, responsibility and unity as a people in the most difficult circumstances.

The Croatian people has also shown resilience and the strength to endure everything and overcome all threats, Plenkovic said, wishing fellow citizens, Croats at home and abroad, a happy and successful 2021.

The government will continue supporting the economy

In the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, people’s health and lives come first while at the same time taking care of the economy, which the government will continue to strongly support by ensuring funds for job retention and company liquidity, he said.

“The arrival of a vaccine awakens a new hope and optimism that in 2021 we will gradually return to normal living. Therefore I appeal to you to trust the experts and get vaccinated because by protecting others and those close to you, you are also protecting yourselves. It is important that by behaving responsibly we all continue to contain the spread of the infection.”

The prime minister thanked the medical staff and the staff in social institutions as well as all those who are tirelessly fighting to protect people’s health and lives.

He extended his condolences to the families of those killed in the earthquakes which struck Croatia this year, wishing those injured a speedy recovery.

“The government, together with its services, in cooperation with the counties, towns and municipalities affected, with the European funds that have been ensured and international assistance, will launch the reconstruction of the demolished areas. We will continue to help the people affected who have lost their homes. And we are grateful for the big solidarity already shown and unity of the Croatian people.”

Plenkovic wished that in 2021, despite all the challenges, Croatia continued to make political, economic and reform progress, while ensuring a swift economic recovery and a better life for all citizens.

He said that as of January 1 already the government was continuing to cut taxes to increase the income of numerous families, improve the business climate, increase investment and encourage job creation.

“We hope better times are coming”

Plenkovic said demographic revitalisation was crucial for Croatia’s future and announced the continuation of pro-birth policies which would improve the quality of life of families, children and young people. The government will see to social solidarity with those who are most vulnerable, he added.

“After the difficult year behind us, we are entering a new decade with the hope that better times are coming. I wish you all the best, lots of health, success and happiness in 2021,” the prime minister said.